Bandaging your cat if they get an injury.

Bandaging Your Cat: The How Tos

You and your pet are far from help (perhaps on vacation) and they happen to get hurt. Would you know how to stabilize them until you can reach a veterinarian?

This article provides some guidance in case of such an emergency, but it does not replace the skill and expertise of your veterinarian. If possible, it is better to let a trained expert treat your pet than to do it yourself.

Head Bandage

The most common reason a head wrap is applied is to stop bleeding from the ears.

After the bandage is applied, frequently check the animal for facial swelling or difficulty breathing. If either is detected, remove the bandage immediately.

Leg Bandage

Leg bandages are typically applied to temporarily stabilize a fracture or to help reduce bleeding from a wound.

After the bandage is applied, frequently check the toes for swelling or coldness. If either is detected, remove the bandage.

Splint

Splints are used to add extra support to fractures of the bones below the elbow. Be very careful if you apply a splint to the rear leg. Due to the natural position of the rear legs, bandaging these bones in a straight alignment can be detrimental. Splints are best used on the front legs only.

Bandages and splints do not help fractures of the humerus (upper arm bone) or femur (thigh bone). They can even cause more damage. If you suspect that your pet has a fractured upper thigh bone or upper arm bone, do not use a bandage or splint. Try to keep your pet as quiet and confined as possible and contact your veterinarian.