With chemical burns, there is the greater risk of ingestion of that chemical, mostly it is going to be household chemicals that you normally keep well away. But cats, in particular, can be very curious. They will go into cupboards, they will look at things, they will lick things to try and taste them. And […]
Types of Burns
Understanding the different types of burns helps in administering the correct first aid:
- Thermal Burns: Caused by contact with hot surfaces, liquids, flames, or prolonged exposure to heat sources like bonfires or home heaters.
- Chemical Burns: Result from exposure to caustic substances such as household cleaning agents.
- Electrical Burns: Occur when a pet bites or chews electrical cords, leading to internal and external injuries.
- Sunburn: Excessive exposure to the sun, especially in pets with light-coloured or sparse fur.
Immediate First Aid Steps
For any burn type, prompt action is essential:
- Cool the Burn: Immediately flush the affected area with cool, running water for at least ten minutes to dissipate heat and halt further tissue damage.
- Avoid Contamination: Do not apply ice, butter, creams, or ointments to the burn, as these can exacerbate the injury.
- Protect the Wound: After cooling, cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing or a clean cloth to shield it from contaminants.
- Seek Veterinary Care: Even minor burns can lead to complications. Prompt veterinary evaluation ensures appropriate treatment and pain management.
For chemical burns, ensure thorough rinsing of the area to remove the offending substance, taking care to prevent the spread of the chemical to other body parts or yourself.
Utilising Gel Burns Dressings
Gel burns dressings are effective in providing immediate cooling and pain relief:
- Application: After initial cooling with water, apply the gel dressing directly to the burn.
- Benefits: These dressings help maintain a moist environment, reduce pain, and protect against infection.
- Considerations: Always have gel burns dressings as part of your pet first aid kit for emergencies.
For more information on gel burns dressings, refer to our detailed article on Gel Burns Dressings.
Preventive Measures
Preventing burns is paramount to your pet’s safety:
- Supervise Pets Near Heat Sources: Keep pets away from open flames, hot surfaces, and kitchen appliances.
- Secure Hazardous Substances: Store chemicals and cleaning agents out of reach to prevent accidental exposure.
- Protect Electrical Cords: Use cord protectors or keep cords out of sight to deter chewing.
- Limit Sun Exposure: Provide shade and consider pet-safe sunscreens for animals prone to sunburn.
Further Resources
Expand your knowledge on pet first aid and related topics:
- Electrocution in Pets: Risks and First Aid
- Recognising and Managing Shock in Pets
- Chemical Burns: Immediate Actions for Pets
For comprehensive training, consider enrolling in our Advanced Pet First Aid Level 3 (VTQ) course.
