Inspect the bite and look for areas where the skin may have been broken. A child may be crying and scared, even if the bite did not break the skin.
Thoroughly wash the bite with soap and clean tap water, allowing the water to flow over the bite and remove dirt and bacteria from the wound. Hold the bite under running water for several minutes. Gently squeeze the bite to help the blood flow. This will help remove dirt and bacteria from the inside of the wound. [5] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Rubbing alcohol Iodine scrub Hydrogen peroxide
Triple antibiotic creams are widely available and effective. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Talk to a doctor before using these medications on infants or if you are pregnant.
Because cat bites usually cover a small area, you will probably be able to cover it with an over-the-counter adhesive Band Aid. Dry the bite first, to help the Band Aid stick.
Are on the face Have deep puncture wounds from the cat’s fangs Bleed a lot and won’t stop Have damaged tissue that needs to be removed Are on joints, ligaments, or tendons
Close wounds to stop bleeding Remove dead tissue to prevent infection Do X-rays to assess damage to joints Recommend reconstructive surgery if you have severe damage or risk of scars
Cefalexin Doxycycline Co-Amoxiclav Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride Metronidazole
If the cat is a pet, consult the owner about whether the cat is up-to-date on its shots. If the cat is yours, check your records to see when it was last vaccinated. Go to the doctor immediately if the cat is wild, feral, or you can’t confirm that it was up-to-date on its shots. Even if the cat looked healthy, you should still go to the doctor if you can’t confirm that the cat had its shots. The cat could still have been carrying a disease, but just not have been symptomatic.
Rabies. While some animals with rabies may be clearly ill, including the classic symptom of foaming at the mouth, the disease can be transmitted before the symptoms become obvious. If there is a chance you were infected with rabies, the doctor will vaccinate you against the infection. [13] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Tetanus. Tetanus is caused by a bacteria that is in dirt and animal feces. This means that if your wound looks dirty or deep, and you haven’t had a tetanus shot within the last five years, your doctor may give you one to be sure that you won’t get infected. [14] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Redness Swelling Increasing pain over time Pus or fluid coming from the wound Swollen lymph nodes Fever Chills and shivering
Hiss Growl Lay his ears flat against his head Become pilo erect, in which the fur stands up, making the cat look bigger than usual
When she is cornered If her tail is pulled If she is held when she is struggling to get away If she is startled or hurt During rough play. Instead of allowing your cat to wrestle with your hands or feet, drag a string and let the cat chase that instead.
Don’t feed stray or feral cats in areas where they will come into contact with children. Cats that are not used to people may react unpredictably.
