In abscess management for a cat bite, which step is typically performed first?

• A. Anesthetize
• B. Clip and lance
• C. Flush
• D. Administer antibiotics

Answer: (A)

Providing anesthesia and analgesia first is essential because manipulating a painful, inflamed abscess requires the patient to be still and comfortable. Pain control reduces stress and movement, allowing precise incision and drainage without causing further tissue trauma. Once the animal is anesthetized, you can clip and prep the area to create a clean field, then lance to drain, followed by thorough flushing to remove pus and debris. Antibiotics come after drainage to address any remaining infection more effectively. So the first step is to anesthetize to enable safe, effective drainage.