Can nocardiosis or actinomycosis spread to people or other pets?

Some cases can be transmitted through direct contact, though the risk is generally low. Wearing gloves and washing hands thoroughly when handling wounds is recommended. If you are concerned, speak with your vet.

What tests are typically needed for this type of skin infection?

Common tests include a physical examination, complete blood count and biochemistry panel, imaging studies, and cytology or bacterial culture to identify the causative organism.

How soon should I expect to see improvement after treatment?

Recovery time depends on the depth of infection and the treatment plan. Superficial lesions may improve within a few days, but complex or deep infections can take weeks to months. Follow your vet's recommended monitoring schedule.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Nocardiosis & Actinomycosis in Dogs & Cats: Skin Abscesses, Diagnosis & Treatment [2025]

Nocardia and Actinomyces infections cause chronic suppurative wounds requiring long-term antibiotic therapy; Nocardia carries a zoonotic risk.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•The wound is producing a large amount of pus and continues to ooze
•Severe lethargy or unresponsiveness for an extended period
•A subcutaneous lump is rapidly enlarging or the skin has ruptured

Schedule a clinic visit as soon as possible (within 24-72 hours)

•A local wound has not healed for a long time and occasionally drains pus
•Repeated small pustules or firm nodules appear on the skin
•Appetite has clearly decreased or body weight continues to decline

01What signs indicate something is wrong?

Cutaneous Nocardia or Actinomyces infections typically cause localised chronic suppuration, subcutaneous lumps or ulceration, and may affect the animal's overall condition.

Lethargy or noticeably reduced activity
Decreased appetite or changes in food intake
Changes in toileting habits or abnormal urine or stool
Lumps, abscesses, or chronic ulceration on the skin
Malodorous wound or persistent discharge that is slow to heal

02How can I assess the situation at home? Key observations and criteria for seeking emergency care

Recording key information and photos of the lesions before your vet visit helps the vet understand the condition quickly and plan appropriate diagnostic tests.

Note the exact time when symptoms first appeared
Observe and record changes in alertness, energy level, and exercise tolerance
Track daily appetite and water intake
Photograph or video the skin lesions, discharge, and any oozing from multiple angles
Record toileting patterns and any abnormal secretions or odours
After documenting with photos, arrange a clinic visit experienced in skin infections as soon as possible

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

The vet will begin with a physical examination and follow up with blood tests, imaging, or cytology to assess the extent of infection and systemic impact.

Physical examination

palpation of lesions, assessment of pain and subcutaneous masses

Complete blood count

evaluation of inflammatory markers and overall health status

Biochemistry panel

checking liver, kidney, and other organ function

X-ray / Ultrasound

assessing whether deep tissue or thoracic/abdominal spread has occurred

Cytology, culture, or tissue biopsy

identifying the causative organism to guide treatment

04What are the treatment and care steps after diagnosis? Medications, diet adjustments, and home care guide

Treatment focuses on controlling infection and proper wound management, which may require long-term medication and regular imaging or blood test follow-up.

Medication and local wound care tailored to diagnostic results
Regular follow-up visits to monitor wound healing and blood or imaging changes
Home wound dressing and cleaning as directed by the vet, with documented wound progress
If the treatment plan is not effective, further investigation or specialist referral will be considered
Owner counselling on the duration of treatment and potential need for long-term monitoring

05What should I prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help the vet assess quickly

Bring photos and videos of the skin lesions, including multiple angles

Record the onset time, progression of symptoms, and any past treatments

List recent medications, supplements, and vaccination history

Prepare notes on toileting habits, eating patterns, and activity levels

Bring any previous test results (bloodwork, imaging, etc.) if available

Consider booking a clinic or specialist with experience in skin or infectious disease management

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.