Got scratched by a cat's claw, felt like a needle prick.
Sep 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
In general, a needle-like sensation after being scratched by a cat's claw may be caused by factors such as the cat's claws not being trimmed in time, tiny thorns or barbs on the claws, tissue regrowth, bacterial contamination, or infection with the rabies virus. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Do not become complacent simply because the wound caused by the cat's claw is small or does not bleed.
Generally, a needle-like sensation after being scratched by a cat's claw may be caused by factors such as the cat's claws not being trimmed in time, tiny thorns or barbs on the claws, tissue regrowth, bacterial contamination, or rabies virus infection. Patients are advised to follow medical advice for symptomatic treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. The cat's claws have not been trimmed in time
Cat claws are relatively sharp. If not trimmed regularly, they may cause injury to the owner. It is recommended to trim the cat's claws promptly. The wound can be cleaned with iodophor to promote healing.
2. Tiny thorns or barbs on the cat's claws
Small thorns or barbs on the cat's claws may pierce the skin surface, causing irritation and resulting in a needle-like sensation. This discomfort may persist for a long period. It is recommended that patients rest adequately, protect the affected area, avoid contact with animals, and allow natural recovery over time, which usually does not require special treatment.
3. Tissue regrowth
If the wound is not properly managed and timely care is neglected after injury, abnormal tissue growth may occur, leading to discomfort. This is generally a normal physiological phenomenon. Patients should keep the affected area clean; once the wound heals, symptoms typically resolve gradually without specific treatment.
4. Bacterial contamination
Cat claws may carry bacteria. If a scratch wound is not cleaned promptly, it may become infected, leading to adverse reactions such as redness, swelling, and pain. It is recommended to wash the wound immediately after a cat scratch. Medications such as erythromycin ointment or compound neomycin ointment may be used as directed by a physician.
5. Rabies virus infection
Cats are among the carriers of the rabies virus. Although a scratch from a cat's claw may not bleed, cats often lick their claws, and their saliva—potentially containing the rabies virus—can enter the human body through broken skin. Therefore, there remains a risk of rabies infection. It is recommended to receive the rabies vaccine within 72 hours to prevent potential infection.
Patients should not ignore small wounds or scratches that do not bleed, because once rabies infection occurs, the fatality rate is extremely high. For safety reasons, receiving the rabies vaccine is strongly recommended.
