Do I need a rabies vaccine if bitten by a cat and the skin is broken?
Dec 02, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
If a cat has not been vaccinated, its immune status is unknown, or it has been bitten by a stray cat, the wound should be immediately flushed with soap and water for more than 15 minutes regardless of whether it is bleeding, and rabies vaccination should be administered as soon as possible. If the wound is deep or bleeding, rabies immunoglobulin should also be infiltrated around the wound to provide immediate protection.
Generally, whether a person needs rabies vaccination after being bitten through the skin by a cat depends on the cat's immunization status and the severity of the wound. If there has been unusual contact or if the wound is bleeding, prompt medical attention is recommended. Specific analysis is as follows:
If the biting cat is a domestic pet that has been vaccinated against rabies and remains within its effective immunization period, and the bite causes only minor skin breakage without bleeding, thorough wound cleaning and disinfection are sufficient initially, and vaccination may be deferred. However, the cat should be closely observed. If the cat shows no abnormalities within 10 days, further treatment is usually unnecessary.
If the cat is unvaccinated, its vaccination status is unknown, or if the injury is caused by a stray cat, immediate action is required regardless of whether the wound is bleeding: wash the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, and seek rabies vaccination promptly. For deep wounds or those involving bleeding, rabies immunoglobulin should also be infiltrated around the wound site to provide immediate passive protection.
During the vaccination period, strenuous exercise and alcohol consumption should be avoided. If fully vaccinated within the past six months, subsequent exposure typically requires only two booster doses. As a preventive measure, avoid contact with stray cats of unknown health status to reduce the risk of infection.
