Do I have to get a shot if I'm bitten by a cat and it bleeds?

Generally speaking, getting a shot refers to receiving a rabies vaccine. If bitten by a cat and the wound is bleeding, it is essential to receive the rabies vaccine. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Rabies is a fatal viral infectious disease with an extremely high mortality rate once symptoms develop. Cats can act as carriers of rabies, and the virus may be present in their saliva. When a person is bitten by a cat, especially if the wound is bleeding, the virus may enter the body through the wound. Therefore, to prevent rabies infection, immediate wound treatment and prompt administration of the rabies vaccine are necessary after being bitten and scratched by a cat. The vaccine stimulates the body's immune system to produce immunity and neutralize any potential virus entering the body, thereby protecting against infection.

In daily life, it is important to maintain an appropriate distance from pets to avoid bites. Additionally, pet health management should be strengthened by regularly vaccinating pets to reduce the risk of them carrying the virus.