Is it okay not to receive serum after being bitten by a cat?

Generally speaking, serum refers to rabies immune globulin. Whether or not rabies immune globulin is required after a cat bite depends on the actual condition of the wound and cannot be universally determined. Minor wounds may not require injection, whereas severe wounds do require it. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is advised. The detailed analysis is as follows:

When the injury caused by a cat bite is a minor wound, with a small surface area and minimal bleeding, the chance of viral entry into the body is relatively low. Additionally, if the cat is healthy and has been vaccinated against rabies, the likelihood that it carries the rabies virus is further reduced. In such cases, thorough wound cleaning, disinfection, and administration of tetanus vaccine when necessary are usually sufficient to prevent infection, making rabies immune globulin injection unnecessary.

However, when the cat bite results in a large, severe wound, rabies immune globulin should be administered. Larger wounds with significant bleeding greatly increase the risk of viral entry. Moreover, extensive wounds are more susceptible to bacterial or microbial infections, potentially leading to complications such as abscess formation and inflammation. In these cases, timely administration of rabies immune globulin can rapidly neutralize viruses around the wound, reduce viral replication and spread within the body, and significantly lower the risk of developing rabies.

When interacting with pets, caution is essential to avoid injuries. Additionally, maintaining pet health and ensuring they receive vaccinations on schedule are effective ways to prevent rabies.