I have an infected cat bite that I think is healing too slowly. I've been using polysporin and keeping it loosely covered. What can I use as a drawing agent to help speed up the process?



TO HELP SPEED HEALING, CONSIDER TAKING HOMEOPATHIC LEDUM PALUSTRUM 30C WHICH MAY BE PURCHASED FROM A HEALTH FOOD STORE OR IF IN THE UK OR EU FROM A PHARMACY. IT IS IMPORTANT TOMAKE SURE THE CAT DOES NOT HAVE ANY DISEASES.

AS A DRAWING AGENT, ANYTYPE OF CLAY WILL WORK.TEA TREE OIL,GOLDEN SEAL AND ESPECIALLY CALENDULA ARE EXCELLENT ANTI-BACTERIAL HERBS. YOU CAN BLEND THESE AND APPLY THEM TO THE AFFECTED AREA.

answered by Dr H K

You should always have animal bites (especially cat bites) seen by a doctor since the chances of infection are high and an untreated infection can get into the blood and be life-threatening. Signs of infection are redness, warmth to touch, red streaks extending from the wound, a wound that is discolored or slow to heal, a wound with yellow-green discharge or foul odor. It is important to see a doctor any time you get a bite or puncture wound to get a tetanus shot--you will likely need a booster if you haven't had one in 5 years. You ideally should get a tetanus shot within 72 hours of the injury. Slow wound healing may also be an indication of systemic disease such as diabetes, which is another reason to be checked out by a doctor.

If you have been to a doctor already and do not need antiobiotics (oral or IV antibiotics are the recommended treatment for an infected wound), you can try the following home remedy:

Carrot Poultice: Grate fresh carrot and apply directly on top of the wound. Cover with a warm, moist compress (washcloth works well) and leave on wound for 20-30 minutes. The carrot poultice will help to draw out toxins and infection and speed healing.

I hope this information is helpful and I highly recommend that you see a doctor if you haven't already!

answered by Dr S B N

Cat bites and scratches often get infected, so it is important to be alert for more serious symptoms.  A poultice including a therapeutic grade clay (like bentonite) mixed with an herbal antimicrobial such as Berberis or Hydrastis may be helpful.  Also, hydrotherapy (alternating hot/cold) compresses may help improve circulation to the affected area. 

answered by Dr K B N


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