Is it okay to not get a shot if there is minor bleeding after being scratched by a cat?

　　The injection referred to here is the rabies vaccine. Generally speaking, if a cat scratches you and causes slight bleeding, and if the cat is confirmed to not carry the rabies virus and the wound has been properly treated, it may be okay not to receive the injection. However, if the cat carries the rabies virus or the wound is improperly treated, there could be serious consequences. If any abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　Under normal circumstances, if the cat's specific health status is known and it is confirmed that the cat does not carry the rabies virus, and the scratched wound is minor with slight bleeding, the injured person can promptly clean and disinfect the wound, such as rinsing the wound with saline solution followed by disinfection with iodophor or alcohol; in such cases, receiving the rabies vaccine might not be necessary.

　　If it is difficult to determine whether the cat carries the rabies virus, failure to receive the rabies vaccine after being scratched by the cat may result in infection. Once symptoms develop, the mortality rate is nearly 100%. Even if the wound only has minor bleeding, one should not be complacent, as the rabies virus might enter the body through the wound. In such situations, it is advisable to go to the hospital as soon as possible to receive the rabies vaccine to prevent infection.

　　After being scratched by a cat, the skin around the wound should be gently cleaned with warm water and soap to remove dirt and bacteria. Avoid using overly harsh cleansers. To prevent the occurrence of rabies, it is recommended to promptly receive the rabies vaccine at a medical facility.