Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 2/3/2007

Question
Hi,

we noticed that our cat has a purulent infection -
probably caused by a fight - in the top of the ear. It
seems that the whole ear was "cut through", as it is
possible to see some blood traces in the inside part as
well. We have Baneocin 20g cream at home, but it was for
bough for humans and has the following composition inside 1
g: 250 units, neomycin 5000 units (5mg). Can this be safely
used for cats as well for such kind of infection?

Answer
In most cases a topical antibiotic like neomycin will help. Ointments tend to slow wound healing though. The bigger problem is that the damage to the cartilage causes more problems that the bacterial infection.  Keep the area clean and dry to give it time to heal.