Cat Puncture Bites to Humans Are Highly Infectious

Cat bites to humans are extremely infectious and should never be taken lightly. The most deadly type of bite from our feline friend is typically a puncture wound.

The initial bleeding from a puncture wound, though scary, can help wash away some of the bacteria transferred from the mouth during the initial bite. Even so, research provides that 80 percent of cat puncture bites to humans result in serious bacterial infections.

If you are bitten, do not panic. However, acting quickly and then seeking appropriate medical attention is an important factor in lessening your chances of developing serious complications or infection.

Below are steps that will help guide you in the event of a cat bite.

Thoroughly wash and bandage the bite:
It is very important to clean and flush the puncture wound with an antibacterial soap and warm water as quickly as possible. Deeply cleansing the bite for at least five minutes could lessen your chances of developing a serious infection. If you have Betadine solution or Peroxide on hand, use these to kill and eradicate germs.

If the wound is still bleeding heavily, apply firm pressure with a clean or sterile cloth until bleeding lessens.

Wrap with a clean bandage. Do NOT apply butterfly type strips. These types of strips will close the wound and trap unwanted bacteria. An antibiotic cream may be applied if one is available.

Seek medical care:
Call your physician as soon as possible or seek medical care from your local emergency department. Many cat bites can transfer Staff or the Pasteurella multocida bacteria. Because of the multitude of bacteria in a cats mouth, most puncture wounds will require a course of oral or intravenous antibiotics. Many bitten will need a tetanus shot as well. Your medical doctor will also discuss the circumstances involving your cat bite and decide if you will perhaps need Rabies shots.

Your local Animal Control should also be contacted after the incident. They will work with you to trap the animal if needed and keep it under a strict quarantine for a total of ten days to ensure it is not rabid.

After treatment:
Watch for any signs that might signal infection in your puncture bite. These may include swelling, redness, oozing or puss from the puncture wound. Also be aware if you start to run a fever or if you have an increase in your amount of pain or marked discomfort. Call your doctor right away if you notice any red streaks from your wound site or any indicators of infection.

According to the National Poison Control Hotline, incidents of Rabies acquired from a cat bite are rare. However, it is better to be safe now and not sorry later. If you have questions about a cat bite, you can contact the National Poison Control Hotline by calling 1-800-222-1222. Your local health department can also offer helpful advice and additional information on how you should proceed if bitten.

Sources include:
Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of NewYork-Presbyterian website: Treatment for Dog and Cat Bites and Scratches
www.childrensnyp.org/mschony/P01897.html

The Cat site: More than you ever wanted to know about cat bites, by Cynthia B. Whitney
www.thecatsite.com/general/catbites.html

National Poison Control Hotline, 1-800-222-1222