{"id":5746,"date":"2025-05-21T08:30:11","date_gmt":"2025-05-21T08:30:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/?p=5746"},"modified":"2025-05-30T10:04:09","modified_gmt":"2025-05-30T10:04:09","slug":"bacterial-skin-infections-in-cats-what-is-pyoderma-in-cats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/cats\/bacterial-skin-infections-in-cats-what-is-pyoderma-in-cats\/","title":{"rendered":"Bacterial Skin Infections in Cats: What is Pyoderma in Cats?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pyoderma in cats is a chronic skin infection which literally translates to \u201cpus in the skin.\u201d It can be a result of bacterial infections, <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-health\/itching-crusty-skin-hair-loss-and-skin-problems-in-cats-what-is-scabies-in-cats\/\">parasitic infestation<\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, inflammation, allergic reactions and\/or cancer. In the most common cases, bacterial skin infections in cats are called pyoderma.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signs of Bacterial Skin Infection in Cats<\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The clinical signs of pyoderma in cats are not as well-defined as in dogs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5750\" src=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bacterial-Skin-Infections-in-Cats-Signs-of-Pyoderma-in-Cats.jpg\" alt=\"what are the common signs of bacterial skin infections in cats? let's find out with this informative gaphic - it features an orange coloured cat with angry red patches. The title says, common signs of pyoderma in cats. these signs include Raised, crusty bumps Skin ulcers or erosions Excessive dandruff or scaling Foul skin odor Hair loss or thinning fur Persistent scratching or biting\" width=\"1890\" height=\"1063\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signs of pyoderma in cats can include &#8211;<\/span><\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Raised bumps with crusting and erosion<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Excessive scaling\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ulcers with erosions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Self-inflicted wounds (scratching\/nibbling)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wounds from feline acne<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Non-healing wounds<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hair loss<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skin odor<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The signs of pyoderma in cats typically do not include patchy hair loss or alopecia like in dogs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Causes Bacterial Skin Infections in Cats?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5748\" src=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bacterial-Skin-Infections-in-Cats-Causes-of-Pyoderma-in-Cats.jpg\" alt=\"An illustration showing an angry red lesion on an orange cat's left shoulder. The heading says &quot;Causes of bacterial skin infections in cats&quot;. these causes can include, Allergic reactions (food or environmental) Parasite infestations (fleas, mites) Hormonal imbalances (like hypothyroidism) Skin trauma from scratching or wounds Poor grooming in long-haired cats Weakened immune system\" width=\"1890\" height=\"1063\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bacterial pyoderma in cats is typically caused by the overgrowth of the <a href=\"https:\/\/journals.sagepub.com\/doi\/full\/10.1177\/1098612X231180231\">normal skin microbiome<\/a>. The most common pathogens causing bacterial skin infection (pyoderma) in cats are <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">S. pseudintermedius<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">S. aureus,<\/span><\/i> <i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">S. felis and Pasteurella multocida.<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Superficial pyodermas develop in the warm and moist folds of the skin. That is why it\u2019s more <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-care\/how-to-take-care-of-your-persian-cat\/\">common in flat-faced cat breeds<\/a> with several facial folds. A cat\u2019s facial folds, neck folds, axillary areas, interdigital areas, elbows and tail folds have a higher risk of bacterial infection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Types of Pyodermas in Cats<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5752\" src=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bacterial-Skin-Infections-in-Cats-Types-of-Pyoderma-in-Cats.jpg\" alt=\"What are the different types of pyoderma in cats? Superficial - this includes the bacterial skin infections that affect on the top of the skin layer and are usually mild. the other type is deep pyoderma, which involves the deeper layers of the skin and are persistent. deep pyoderma often requires oral or systemic antibiotics for prolonged periods.\" width=\"1890\" height=\"1063\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pyodermas in cats can be complex or simple. The <\/span><b>simple pyoderma<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> infections typically begin with one-time events such as <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-health\/how-to-choose-the-right-flea-treatment-for-my-cat\/\">flea bites<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complex infections can be recurrent and caused by multiple underlying conditions. The causes of <\/span><b>complex bacterial pyoderma<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in cats can include &#8211;<\/span><\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergic reactions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hormonal disorders (hypothyroidism or Cushing\u2019s)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parasites (Demodex)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brachycephaly (skin fold)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Immunodeficiency or immunosuppression<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bacterial pyodermas are typically limited to the upper layer of the skin and veterinarians often refer to them as superficial. The pyodermas that involve the inner layers of the skin are called deep.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Proper Diagnosis of Bacterial Skin Infections in Cats<\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The proper diagnosis of bacterial skin infections in cats is mandatory for correct treatment. Since one or more bacteria can be involved in the infection, it is important to identify the causal organisms to understand which medicines will work the best for your cat.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5749\" src=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bacterial-Skin-Infections-in-Cats-Diagnosis-of-Pyoderma-in-Cats.jpg\" alt=\"What the the diagnostic tests used by veterinarians to diagnose the cause(s) of bacterial skin infections in cats or pyometra? Microscopic examination of skin lesions or cytology Skin scraping to check for mites Bacterial culture and sensitivity testing Fungal culture in some cases\" width=\"1890\" height=\"1063\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now, diagnostic options veterinary dermatologists recommend are &#8211;<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Microscopy\/Cytology\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The veterinarian will take samples from the skin lesions of your cat and study them under the microscope. That will reveal the presence (or absence) of bacteria, white blood cells or other agents.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Skin scraping<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The veterinarian will gently scrape your cat\u2019s skin from around the affected areas and look for mites. It can cause some irritation and mild bleeding.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Skin culture and sensitivity testing<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It can help the vet determine the types of bacteria present and the antibiotics that will work for the same. Bacterial C&amp;S is crucial to reduce antibiotic resistance and ensure your cat receives only the meds they need.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Fungal testing<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In some cases, the doctor will also check for fungal growth via culture to diagnose the cat\u2019s skin condition.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the Available Treatment For Bacterial Skin Infections in Cats?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5751\" src=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bacterial-Skin-Infections-in-Cats-Treatment-for-Pyoderma-in-Cats.jpg\" alt=\"So, if your cat has skin infections, what are some of the common vet-recommended treatments for skin infections in cats or pyoderma? antimicrobial or medicated shampoos, antimicrobial wipes and sprays, oral antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication and, of course, the treatment of all underlying causes which may include hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease.\" width=\"1890\" height=\"1063\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Topical Treatment for Pyoderma in Cats<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Topical medications are available for bacterial skin infections in cats. However, you must ensure your cat doesn\u2019t lick it after it\u2019s applied. Here are the common topical treatments prescribed by veterinarians for pyoderma in cats &#8211;<\/span><\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial shampoo<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benzoyl peroxide shampoo<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antiseptic &amp; antifungal spray<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antimicrobial pet wipes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These products are usually more effective in eliminating simple or superficial pyoderma.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Systemic Treatment for Pyoderma in Cats<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Systemic or oral medication is required in the cases of deep pyoderma. Oral antibiotics are the most common course of treatment for bacterial skin infections in cats. The <a href=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/pet-health\/antibiotic-resistant-bacterial-infection-in-dogs-how-to-understand-treat-and-prevent-it\/\">choice of antibiotics<\/a> depends upon the bacterial culture and sensitivity, and your cat\u2019s overall health.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In rare cases, antifungals may be prescribed in low doses. However, never begin a course of antibiotics or antifungals for cats on your own, without diagnostic testing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Should You Ask Your Vet About Your Cat\u2019s Skin Infections?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your cat has been diagnosed with pyoderma, it\u2019s important to have a clear understanding of the treatment and recovery process. Here are a few essential questions you should ask your vet:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>What is causing the infection?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Understanding the root cause will help in managing the condition better. It could be allergies, parasites, or something more complex like a hormonal issue.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How long will the treatment last?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Ask your vet how many days or weeks your cat needs to be on antibiotics or other medication. Stopping treatment too early can cause the infection to come back.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>What is the correct dose?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Confirm the exact dosage of antibiotics and how often you need to give them. Incorrect dosing can lead to resistance or side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Are there easier alternatives available?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If your cat is difficult to medicate, ask about long-acting injectable antibiotics or flavored formulations that are easier to give at home.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always follow your vet\u2019s advice and complete the full course of treatment, even if the symptoms seem to get better early.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recovery and Management of Bacterial Skin Infections in Cats<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-5756\" src=\"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bacterial-Skin-Infections-in-Cats-Causes-of-Pyoderma-in-Cats-1.jpg\" alt=\"Once your cat has been diagnosed with pyoderma, how do you manage the bacterial skin infections in cats properly? compete the full course of their antibiotics and antimicrobials, do not bathe them too frequently, only use vet-prescribed topical treatments, check for all possible underlying causes and maintain good hygiene including changing their bedding, cleaning out their litter and keeping them well-groomed.\" width=\"1890\" height=\"1063\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The recovery from pyoderma depends on the severity of the infection and your cat\u2019s overall health. With proper treatment, most cats start to show improvement within a week. However, deep infections may take longer to heal completely.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are a few tips to support your cat\u2019s recovery:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Complete the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/missed-antibiotics-dose\">full course of antibiotics<\/a><\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as prescribed by your vet.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Avoid bathing your cat too frequently<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> unless directed by your vet. Overbathing can dry out the skin and slow healing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Use only vet-recommended topical treatments.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Don\u2019t apply human creams or ointments on your cat\u2019s skin.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Check for underlying causes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> like flea infestations, allergies, or hormonal issues to prevent recurrence.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Maintain good hygiene<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> by cleaning your cat\u2019s bedding, grooming tools, and living space regularly.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In some cases, pyoderma may recur if the root cause is not treated. Regular checkups and skin assessments can help keep infections in check. If you notice new lesions or if your cat starts scratching again, visit your vet for a follow-up.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FAQs on Pyoderma in Cats<\/span><\/h2>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b style=\"font-family: 'PT Serif', serif; font-size: 14px;\">1. Is pyoderma in cats contagious to other pets or humans?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pyoderma itself is not usually contagious. However, if caused by parasites or fungal infections, it may spread. Always follow your vet\u2019s hygiene and treatment guidelines to protect other pets and family members.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>2. Can cats get pyoderma from scratching too much?<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, constant scratching or licking due to allergies or parasites can break the skin barrier, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infection. Treating the underlying cause is key to preventing pyoderma.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>3. How long does it take for a cat to recover from pyoderma?<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recovery can take 2 to 6 weeks depending on the depth of the infection and overall health. Superficial cases clear up faster than deep pyoderma. Always complete the prescribed course of treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>4. Can I treat pyoderma in my cat at home?<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Home care supports recovery, but treatment should always be guided by a vet. Incorrect or delayed treatment can worsen the infection. Use only prescribed medications and follow your vet\u2019s instructions carefully.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>5. What breeds of cats are more prone to pyoderma?<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Persians and Exotic Shorthairs are more prone due to skin folds that trap moisture. Regular cleaning and early vet intervention help prevent infections in these breeds.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Pyoderma in cats is a chronic skin infection which literally translates to \u201cpus in the skin.\u201d It can be a result of bacterial infections, parasitic infestation, inflammation, allergic reactions and\/or&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":5753,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[118],"tags":[9,112,137,136],"class_list":["post-5746","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cats","tag-cat","tag-cat-disease","tag-cat-health","tag-cat-treatment"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5746","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5746"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5746\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5758,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5746\/revisions\/5758"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5753"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5746"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5746"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vetic.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5746"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}