What should you know about cat impetigo?

It often begins as a small itchy or sore spot, then may ooze and form a yellow-brown crust. Scratching, eczema, insect bites, and minor cuts can give bacteria an entry point. The infection can spread to nearby skin or to another person through close contact and shared towels, clothing, or bedding. Crusting skin can have several causes, so appearance alone cannot confirm impetigo.

Gently wash the area, pat it dry, cover it with a clean dressing, and wash hands after touching it. Keep nails short and avoid sharing towels, razors, clothing, or bedding; launder items that touch the sore. A clinician may prescribe a topical medicine for a small area or oral treatment when infection is more widespread. Do not use leftover antibiotics or pick the crusts.

Arrange medical assessment if sores are spreading, painful, recurrent, close to the eyes, or not settling with basic care. Seek prompt help for fever, marked swelling, increasing warmth, or a child who seems unusually unwell. Treatment may be needed to reduce spread and protect others at home.

Ask whether the rash fits impetigo or another condition, whether you need topical or oral treatment, how long to keep the area covered, and when it is reasonable to return to school, work, sport, or close contact.