How do you apply a hot compress to an unwilling cat?

sanecatlady2

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My cat has a small wound from her recent spay. I thought she had bitten out her stitiches, but her stitches are fine, the vet just recommended hot  compresses for 5 minutes every day. The problem is, my cat won't stay still for something like that! How can I get her to stay still for me to put the hot cloth on her wound without her wiggling and running away? Can I use a heating pad? Would that have a similar effect as a hot compress? I think she would be more likely to lay on something warm rather than me putting it on her. 
 

stephanietx

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You could put a damp towel on top of the heating pad and then wrap it all in another towel.  That would simulate a warm compress.  Be careful that you only use the lowest heat setting and don't leave your kitty unattended with the heating pad on as that can lead to a burn for your kitty.
 

mrsgreenjeens

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We had to do that to our kitty's anal glands, and my hubby did it with no problem
.  I asked him how the heck he planned on doing it, and he said "like this" and just picked up the cat, slammed the warm compress against her backside (from below so it got under her tail) before she had a chance to know what was happening, and held on.  I think it felt so good once it happened that she liked it


Now doing this on her tummy is slightly different, but you could apply the same principal,if Stephanie's trick didn't work.  Just pick her up with the compress already in your hand, applying it to her stomach as you pick her up.  Then just hold her like normal, stomach pressed against the compress.
 
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