Treatment for Dog and Cat Bites and Scratches
- If the bite or scratch is bleeding, apply pressure to it with a clean bandage or towel to stop the bleeding.
- Wash the wound with soap and water under pressure from a faucet for at least 5 minutes.
- Dry the wound and cover it with a sterile dressing.
Full Answer
Does a bite from a cat need treatment?
Cat bite treatment is necessary to prevent serious illness and disease. Local infections such as an abscess or a closed-off pocket of puss are common complications of cat bite wounds. More serious complications, such as cellulitis and systemic illness resulting in infection and even sepsis, may result if left untreated by antibiotics for cats.
What antibiotics do you give a cat with a cat bite?
In cat bites, doctors will administer the following types of antibiotics:
- Cephalosporins
- Tetracycline
- Fluoroquinolones
What do you do if your cat bites you?
“The owner should never scruff, shake, spray or frighten the cat in any way; this can cause the cat to respond with true and dangerous aggression,” says Dr. Bright. If a cat bites you and breaks the skin, be sure to wash the wound immediately. Look for any swelling, pain or redness that spreads.
How to prevent a cat bite from getting infected?
“Because cat bites carry the risk of infection, they shouldn’t be taken lightly,” Dawn Quinn, a registered nurse, advises. “You can lessen your chances of developing an infection by washing your wound with antibacterial soap thoroughly and immediately. If you have peroxide or Betadine on hand, you may use either to disinfect your wound.”
What should I do if I get bitten by a cat?
If a cat or dog bites you, you should:Wash the wound gently with soap and water.Apply pressure with a clean towel to the injured area to stop any bleeding.Apply a sterile bandage to the wound.Keep the wound elevated above your heart to prevent swelling and infection.
Is cat bite serious?
Approximately 50% to 80% of cat bites become serious enough to warrant medical attention. A person may experience pain, swelling, and inflammation around the wound within 24–48 hours after the bite. An older 2013 study states that P. multocida can frequently cause cellulitis and abscesses.
Do you need antibiotics for cat bite?
Antibiotic prophylaxis should be considered for all bites requiring closure and for high-risk bites. All cat bites are considered high risk for infection because they tend to cause deep puncture wounds. Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin) is generally considered the first-line prophylactic treatment for animal bites.
Should I go to the doctor for a cat bite?
Do I Need To See A Doctor For A Cat Bite? If the bitten area becomes increasingly painful or swollen, if there is pus or any discharge (particularly with a bad smell) coming from the wound, or if you develop a fever or swollen lymph nodes (glands), you should also see your doctor as soon as possible.
Is TT injection necessary for cat bite?
Tetanus. Tetanus is a serious infection caused by a bacterium called Clostridium tetani. It's recommended that you have a tetanus booster after a cat bite if it's been more than 5 years since you've had the vaccine.
Do I need a rabies shot after a cat bite?
If you were bitten by a cat, dog, or ferret that appeared healthy at the time you were bitten, it can be confined by its owner for 10 days and observed. No anti-rabies prophylaxis is needed. No person in the United States has ever contracted rabies from a dog, cat or ferret held in quarantine for 10 days.
Can a cat bite heal on its own?
They are highly likely to become infected. Most wounds heal within 10 days. But an infection can occur even with proper treatment. So be sure to check the wound daily for signs of infection (see below).
What does an infected cat bite look like?
Signs of infection would appear at the wound site and could include increased pain, redness, swelling and a purulent discharge. Red streaking in a pattern of lines moving upward toward the body is another indicator of infection, according to Torvinen.
How do you know if a cat bite has rabies?
At first, there's a tingling, prickling, or itching feeling around the bite area. A person also might have flu-like symptoms such as a fever, headache, muscle aches, loss of appetite, nausea, and tiredness. After a few days, neurological symptoms develop, including: irritability or aggressiveness.
What is the best antibiotic for cat bites?
Amoxicillin with clavulanate is the current recommendation for antibiotic treatment for cat bites. In penicillin-allergic patients or those with penicillin-resistant strains, other alternatives are necessary.
How many injections are needed after cat bite?
The recommended pre-exposure vaccination includes three doses of a cell culture vaccine (CCV) administered on days 0, 7 and 21 or 28. There are no recommendations for missed prophylaxis.
How long after a cat bite does infection set in?
Onset of infection can be rapid, in less than 24 hours. Without treatment, a serious infection may develop within 24-48 hours, or it may take a few...
How do you know if a cat bite is infected?
Common symptoms include redness, swelling, warmth, and pain near the bite, with or without discharge or drainage. A fever, flu-like symptoms, swoll...
How do you treat an infected cat bite?
Wash the wound right away with soap and running water. Then seek medical care. Don’t use topical antibiotic creams like Neosporin, since they can t...
Should I go to the doctor for a cat bite?
Yes. Some cat bites may heal on their own, but others may become severely infected very quickly, leading to surgeries, serious illness, or hospital...
What to do if your cat bites you?
Give you a booster shot if your tetanus vaccine is out-of-date. Determine whether the wound needs stitches. Remember, it’s important to act quickly if you get a cat bite. Call your doctor as soon as possible to help cut the risk for infection.
How to treat a cat wound?
Sayles. “This makes cleaning the wound easier for you and reduces infection risk.”. Your doctor will likely do the following: Clean the wound again and apply antibiotic ointment. Prescribe antibiotics, such as Augmentin, if there’s an infection concern.
What happens if a cat bites you?
If you contract the campylobacter infection, symptoms may include stomach cramps, fever, nausea and diarrhea. “If you contract pasteurella bacteria after a cat bites or scratches you, initial signs of infection can appear in a few hours ,” says Dr. Sayles. “Hands, joints and tendons are at greatest risk.”. People can also contract cat scratch ...
Can stray cats bite?
While domestic indoor and outdoor cats are usually vaccinated against certain bacteria and infections, stray cats (and sometimes even your domestic cat) ...
Can cats get Bartonella henselae?
This comes from cats infected with Bartonella henselae bacteria from flea bites, blood transfusions or fighting with other infected cats. A bite, scratch or even the saliva of an infected cat can pass it along.
What to do if a cat bites you?
Antibiotics for cat bites. A doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics to fight off the infection. Some bites require the use of antibiotics through an intravenous (IV), while others may be treated with oral medication.
How to treat a cat bite infection?
Infected cat bite treatment. A doctor or nurse will wash the wound thoroughly, trim away any dead tissue, and apply antibiotic ointment. They may take a culture swab to help identify the type of bacteria causing the infection .
What is the most common organism that can be found in cats mouths?
Pasteurella multocida. Pasteurella multocida is a type of bacteria frequently found in the mouths of cats that can cause infections after a bite or scratch. In fact, a 2013 research review showed that Pasteurella is the most common organism isolated from both cat and dog bites.
How long does it take for a cat bite to show symptoms?
An infection from a cat bite may set in within a few hours, but it can take 10 days or more for some infections, like cat-scratch disease, to start showing symptoms. says that the incubation period for rabies (time between exposure and the appearance of symptoms) can be weeks to months.
How long after a cat bite can you get tetanus?
It’s recommended that you have a tetanus booster after a cat bite if it’s been more than 5 years since you’ve had the vaccine.
How long should a cat be monitored for rabies?
PEP isn’t generally needed if the cat isn’t showing signs of rabies, but the cat should be monitored for at least 10 days to be sure.
How to clean a cat bite wound?
Bites on the hand are also at a high risk of infection. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and cover with a sterile bandage.
What to do if a cat bites you?
In addition to dressing the wound and applying stitches if needed, the treatment of a cat bite may involve antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection as well as a tetanus shot. 1
What infections can a cat bite and scratch?
Among some of the infections that cat bites and/or scratches can potentially transmit are: Staphylococcus aureus 3 . Campylobacter 3 . Pasteurella multocida 4 .
How long do you quarantine a cat after rabies?
This includes bites from cats. If the cat's rabies vaccination status is current, it may be placed under a short quarantine ranging from 10 to 14 days.
How to handle a cat that is frightened?
On top of that, you need to take precautions when dealing with a cat that may be frightened or ill. Separate the cat from the injured party . If the cat's owner is around, they are best suited to safely handle the pet. Don't start any treatment until there is a reasonable expectation that the cat won't attack again.
What to do if your cat is a stray?
If the cat is a stray or looks ill, call your local animal protection services. Do not attempt to restrain the cat if it looks scared or upset; you may only end up injuring yourself and/or the cat. First Aid Treatment for a Puncture Wound.
How to stop bleeding from a wound?
Control bleeding by applying direct pressure, placing a clean cloth or gauze over the wound and pressing firmly until the bleeding stops. If the bleeding is on the arm or leg, elevate the limb above heart level. If the cloth bleeds through, don't remove it. Rather place another cloth on top and keep applying pressure.
Can you handle a cat that is injured?
If the cat's owner is around, they are best suited to safely handle the pet. Don't start any treatment until there is a reasonable expectation that the cat won't attack again. If you are treating the injured party, take standard precautions whenever possible to protect yourself and the injured party. This includes washing your hands and wearing ...
How to treat a cat bite infection?
Treatment of a cat bite infection typically involves antibiotics. For first aid care, follow the advice above. Then see a doctor as soon as possible. Most physicians will prescribe antibiotics as a precaution, since cat bites can become infected (and the infection can spread) quickly. Often, outpatient treatment with a course ...
What to do if you are bit by a cat?
What To Do If You’re Bitten By A Cat. Wash the wound immediately if you can, using soap and running water. If the wound is bleeding, you may apply pressure and a light wrap or bandage to stop the bleeding. Then see a doctor as soon as you possibly can, within 24 hours or less.
Why do cats bite?
In most cases, cats don’t mean to cause harm. They have their own reasons for biting, which might not be obvious to us human beings. Common causes of bites include fear, overstimulation (during play or petting), or redirected aggression (for example, you being bitten if you break up a cat fight).
What are the symptoms of a cat bite?
Red streaks extending from the bite area. Fever and flu-like symptoms. Swollen glands/lymph nodes. These symptoms following a cat bite warrant an emergency room visit. Individuals with a suppressed immune system, children, and the elderly are at a higher risk, but severe infections may happen to anyone.
What happens when a cat bites a human?
During a bite, a cat’s tooth might also transfer pathogens commonly found on human skin ( Staphylococcus and Streptococcus) into underlying tissues, creating a “cocktail” of bacterial contamination. Once trapped under the skin, these bacteria spread and multiply, causing infection and inflammation (cellulitis) of the surrounding soft tissues.
How to tell if a dog bite is a swollen gland?
A fever, flu-like symptoms, swollen glands, and loss of sensation or mobility near the bite may indicate a more serious infection.
How to teach a child to play with a cat?
Teach children appropriate ways to pet and interact with a cat. Never use hands or feet to play with cats. Always use toys, and give your kitty time to calm down if they get too excited during play. Don’t force your cat to be held or petted if they don’t want to.
What to do if your cat bites a spider?
Their venom can cause severe reactions in cats, so if you suspect a spider bite, bring your cat to your veterinarian immediately. The location of the bite can be important as bites to the face may be more severe than those to a paw.
What is the best way to keep cats from getting stings?
Protecting Your Cat from Insect Bites and Stings. Cats are very sensitive to the chemicals used in insect repellents, so using a pesticide in your home is not recommended. Diatomaceous earth (fossilized plankton) or boric acid may help when applied around the outside of the house.
Why does my cat itch after a flea bite?
Some cats get very itchy from just one flea bite. This reaction is a response to the saliva left behind in the bite, as fleas have no venom. The best treatment is prevention. There are effective topical and chewable flea preventatives available from your veterinarian.
Can a cat bite a cat?
In the United States, a single bite or sting is very unlikely to kill a healthy adult cat. However, when insects swarm, such as yellow jackets or ants, the cumulative effect can cause severe reactions in cats that require emergency treatment. Some cats may be allergic to either the bite or to the venom of an insect.
Can cats get mosquito bites?
Some cats are allergic to mosquito bites, known as mosquito bite hypersensitivity. These cats usually have areas of hair loss and redness on their face. It can be quite uncomfortable for them. There is no cure for mosquito bite hypersensitivity.
Can a bee stinger hurt a cat?
Bees leave their stinger in the victim. If you are able to remove the stinger from your cat, that may help reduce the pain. If not, your veterinarian can remove the stinger for you.
Can a yellow jacket stinger be removed?
If not, your veterinarian can remove the stinger for you. Wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets produce a stronger venom that contains enzymes which can cause cellular death in the region of the sting. They do not lose their stinger in the skin, allowing them to sting multiple times.
What to do if a cat bites you?
When a cat bites you, and particularly if the bite is close to your hand or other joints, you may hear the advice to go see a doctor to prevent infection. But what happens when you receive antibiotic treatment for a bite?
What antibiotics are used for cat bites?
The most common prescriptions for cat bite antibiotics include: • Augmentin. • Ceftin.
Why do vets test for bacteria?
Pet meds are necessarily because using antibiotics comes with the risk of possible side effects and even toxic effects.
What happens if a cat bites your hand?
Cat teeth are long, sharp and slender and once he/she bites your hand, bacteria travels quickly. Not only can the infection spread to the wound and the joint, but it can even infect the bone itself. The symptoms of infection are redness in the skin, swelling, and intense pain that seems to be increasing.
How long does it take for a cat to get a bite?
Remember that cats can actually develop allergies to certain antibiotics, and kittens can experience growing problems because of antibiotics, so the treatment for cats must come from a veterinarian, whereas a cat bite and possible infection should be investigated within eight hours by a doctor.
How long does it take for a dog to bleed after a bite?
That means your bleeding does not seem to be slowing down or your bone is broken from the bite. Rather than wait the whole 12-24 hours , try to see a doctor in the ER within eight hours of the bite happening, as immediate cleansing and treatment can reduce the chance of infection.
Why don't cats bite?
Most cats usually don’t bite at all unless they are (A) feeling threatened and aggressive, (B) roughhousing because they haven’t been taught better, or (C) they are not feeling well and something could be physically wrong. Cat teeth are long, sharp and slender and once he/she bites your hand, bacteria travels quickly.
What to do if a cat bites you?
If the biting cat is unknown or a stray, take a picture of the cat if possible. Contact your local health department or animal control with a description of the cat and their location. All cat bites should be reported to the local health department. This not only protects your own health, but that of other people too.
How to treat a cat bite that broke the skin?
If the cat bite has broken the skin, immediate action should be taken. Wash the wound gently under running water — avoid scrubbing. Gently clean the wound with hand soap. Avoid cleaning with strong disinfectants or other chemicals, as they can sting and cause additional pain around the wound.
How long does it take for a cat to get rabies shots?
If their rabies vaccination is current, this could range from 10–14 days, with three visits to the veterinarian during this time to assess the cat for signs of rabies. This timeframe is needed to determine if the cat was shedding the rabies virus in their salvia at the time of the bite.
Why are cat bites dangerous?
Cat bites can be highly infectious. The narrow and long teeth of a cat act like needles that “inject” bacteria from both the human’s skin surface and the cat’s mouth (the most common bacteria being Pasteurella multocida) into the wound.
How serious are cat bites?
Most don’t cause problems but depending on the location and the depth of the bite , they can be very serious. Only a medical doctor for humans can tell you for sure what is serious or not.
How to clean a wound with salt?
Alternately, clean the wound with a mild salt solution, made by mixing 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of table salt in 2 cups (500 ml) of water. Rinse for several minutes after cleaning. Control bleeding by applying pressure to the wound using an absorbent dressing or bandage.
How long does it take for a bite to heal?
If the bite is infected and appropriate treatment is implemented, the infection will usually heal within 7-10 days. Call 911 if: The person has been seriously injured.
