Cat has Tumor/Absess on Tail

[Tommy111]

My cat is around 14 years old... He first got an absess looking growth on the base of his tail about 3 weeks ago, we took him the vets last week and he thinks it could be a tumor so given us a course of antibiotics especially for skin.

Today I noticed maggots within the growth feeding on the flesh and it has really scared me. An operation to remove the tumor/tail is going to cost a lot of money (which I don't have available) and even after that it may not solve the problem.

I'm afraid we may have to have him put down as he may be suffering and we can't afford to falk out for an operation that may not solve the problem (which he doesn't seem to be).

I'd like to know if anyone else has had/seen this problem and what you think we should do.

We are taking him to a charity veterinary tomorrow to see if they can help at all.

[AnnieBrooke]

If there are still maggots on the wound, try to take them out with a tweezer.

[CML2014]

Hi Tommy,

Taking him to the charity vet is the best thing. They can actually look at it, test it and advise you as to what needs to be done.

I am sure they will have a payment plan for you to pay off the bill over time.
If not, do you have a veterinary school near you? They can also help you, as they are a teaching hospital and these kinds of cases are a learning tool. I am not sure they even charge.

Think your kit will need amputation, which he will be fine with--many cats lose parts and keep on ticking.

Good Luck and please keep us posted
CML