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How to Clean Your Cat’s Oesophagostomy Tube Site

If your cat has returned home from the hospital with an oesophagostomy (O-tube) for feeding, keeping the tube site clean and adequately maintained to prevent infections and ensure comfort is crucial. 

The tube allows for feeding when your cat cannot eat normally but requires routine care.

In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through cleaning and caring for your cat’s O-tube site, offering helpful tips and signs to watch for along the way.

Oesophagostomy tubes are often used for cats that cannot eat due to illness, injury or surgery. This feeding tube is placed directly into the esophagus through a small incision in the neck, bypassing the mouth and allowing for direct feeding. 

While the tube helps ensure your cat gets the nutrition they need, keeping the tube site clean is critical to prevent complications like infection. Hygiene is essential when handling your cat’s O-tube site. Before you start, gather everything you’ll need to keep the process smooth and stress-free for both you and your cat.

Step 1.
Wear gloves: Always wear gloves to maintain a sterile environment and protect yourself and your cat from infection.

What you’ll need:

  • Gloves
  • Makeup pads (or sterile gauze)
  • Tap water
  • Cotton swabs
  • Betadine cream (or another antiseptic ointment recommended by your vet)
A cat with donut pillow around neck

Step 2.

  • Your cat will likely come home wearing a kitty collar or O-tube wrap to prevent them from tampering with the O-tube. Carefully remove this for cleaning.
  • Unfasten the velcro pieces on the collar. Begin by undoing the piece at the top, followed by the one under your cat’s neck.
  • Gently lift your cat’s neck and undo the remaining velcro piece. This will allow you to slide the collar off through the opening without causing any discomfort.
  • Remove the makeup pad or gauze that is wrapped around the tube site. This pad helps keep the area clean and dry between cleanings.

Always handle your cat gently, as they may be sensitive around the O-tube site. Offering treats during the process can help keep them calm.

Step 3.

  • Before you begin cleaning, take a moment to inspect the tube site for any signs of infection. Look for redness. This can be normal in the first few days after the tube is placed, but if it persists or worsens, consult your vet.
  • Check for yellow discharge or any unusual swelling, which could indicate infection. If you notice any signs of infection, it’s essential to contact your vet for further assessment.
  • Monitor your cat’s overall behaviour closely. If it seems unusually lethargic or scratches the tube site more than usual, it might be a sign of discomfort or infection.

Cleaning the tube site

Cleaning the tube site is important to keep it free from debris and prevent scabbing or infection.

Step 1.
Remove any scabs: If a scab has formed around the site, gently clean it off. Use a cotton swab dipped in tap water to soften the scab and gently remove it without causing discomfort to your cat.

Step 2.
Apply antiseptic: Once the area is clean, apply Betadine cream or another antiseptic cream recommended by your vet around the site using a cotton swab or finger. This helps to keep the area sterile and prevent infection. Be gentle when applying the antiseptic to avoid irritating the sensitive skin around the tube site.

Step 3.
Replace the makeup pad and collar. After cleaning and applying the antiseptic, it’s time to replace the makeup pad or gauze around the tube. Use a fresh makeup pad or sterile gauze with a small hole cut out to accommodate the O-tube. Slide the pad back onto the tube, ensuring it sits comfortably against your cat’s skin. The pad should provide a barrier between the tube and your cat’s neck, preventing friction and irritation.

Thread the tube through the narrow part of the collar under your cat’s chin. Wrap the collar around your cat’s neck and fasten the velcro securely, but make sure it’s not too tight—there should be enough room to fit two fingers between the collar and your cat’s neck.

Step 4.
Once you’ve cleaned and replaced the collar, watch your cat for any signs of discomfort or irritation around the tube site. Make sure the collar is snug but not restrictive. A loose collar could allow your cat to reach the tube, while one that is too tight may cause discomfort. Daily site inspection is important to catch any signs of infection early. If your cat shows signs of pain or discomfort or if you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.

When to contact your vet

If you observe any of the following signs, it’s important to seek vet advice:

  • Persistent redness or swelling around the tube site
  • Yellow discharge or a foul smell
  • Scabbing that doesn’t heal or keeps reoccurring
  • Increased discomfort or agitation in your cat
  • Difficulty feeding through the O-tube

Following these steps will help ensure your cat’s oesophagostomy tube stays clean and infection-free, promoting a faster and more comfortable recovery. Always contact your vet with concerns or questions about the tube site or your cat’s overall health.

Taking care of an O-tube may seem overwhelming initially, but with some practice, it becomes more manageable, and your cat will benefit from the extra care and attention.

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.

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Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

1300 228 377
1-15 Lexington Rd,
Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pm
Saturday/Sunday - Closed

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