At Home

• 1). Clip the hair of the affected area or areas with scissors.
  
  
• 2
  
  
  Wash with a medicated shampoo. Once or twice daily, very gently scrub the affected area or areas with an antibacterial, medicated shampoo specifically formulated for cats. Let the shampoo soak for approximately 10 minutes before rinsing.
  
  
• 3). Cleanse the affected area. Soak a clean cotton ball with an antibacterial solution. You may choose a 4 percent chlorhexidine solution (under veterinary supervision), or you may purchase an all-natural spray.
  
  
• 4
  
  
  Repeat Steps 2 and 3 every day for 7 to 10 days, or until the hot spots are healed.
  
  

At The Veterinarian

• 1). Call your veterinarian immediately if your cat's hot spots have open wounds or oozing sores, or if your cat will not permit you to treat her hot spots. If, after 7 to 10 days of home treatment, the hot spots have not begun to dry and heal, call your veterinarian and make an appointment.
  
  
• 2
  
  
  Identify the underlying cause. This is important for two reasons: to prevent the hot spots from becoming a recurrent problem and to rule out a more serious health issue.
  
  
• 3). Treat secondary bacterial infections. If your cat's hot spots have become infected, it will be necessary for her to take an oral antibiotic. In severe cases, anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed.
  
  
• 4
  
  
  Treat the itching. If your cat has continued to lick and scratch his hot spots, he may need an oral antihistamine, or a topical spray or lotion.