What to do if bitten by a cat
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
If bitten by a cat, especially a stray cat, and bleeding occurs, the wound should first be washed alternately with soap water and running water for 20 minutes. Then promptly disinfect with iodine tincture and go to a disease control center or community hospital as soon as possible to receive rabies vaccine and/or tetanus vaccine. Anti-inflammatory treatment may be necessary when indicated. Rabies has a fatality rate of 100%, so the rabies vaccine should be administered promptly within 24 hours.
In daily life, more and more people enjoy keeping pets such as cats or dogs. However, being bitten by them is unavoidable. What should you do if you are bitten by a cat?
What to do if bitten by a cat
If you are bitten by a cat—especially a stray cat—and the wound is bleeding, first wash the area thoroughly with soap and running water alternately for 20 minutes. Then promptly disinfect the wound with iodophor, and go to a disease control center or community hospital as soon as possible to receive rabies vaccine and/or tetanus vaccine. Anti-inflammatory treatment may be necessary when needed. Additionally, because wounds caused by cat bites or scratches constitute level-three exposure to rabies, rabies immune globulin or antirabies serum should be infiltrated around the wound. Rabies has a fatality rate of 100%, and timely vaccination is the only way to prevent it. Vaccination should be administered within 24 hours.
Any animal bite that breaks the skin may transmit the rabies virus. Cats can carry this virus and cause infection, so prompt vaccination is essential for prevention. Although the probability of infection is low, it should never be ignored.
During the period of receiving rabies vaccines, avoid alcohol, strong tea, and coffee; do not eat spicy or stimulating foods such as chili peppers, onions, garlic, etc. Also, avoid catching a cold, strenuous exercise, or excessive fatigue to prevent illness. We hope this information helps you. Wishing you good health and happiness!
