Bird and small rodent bites - what to do?
In case of bites from these pets, the procedure of rinsing the wound is the same as in case of dog and cat bites, but some specific features should be kept in mind.
Body
Basic procedure
- Rinse the wound with soap and water as soon as possible.
- If there is bleeding, it must be stopped.
Bird bites - special note:
- If the bird bite wound shows signs of infection or if it is in a sensitive place (e.g. near the eyes), antibiotic therapy will probably be needed.
- Also, if the child develops flu-like symptoms within a week or two after the bite, be sure to take him/her to the doctor, because he/she may have parrot fever (ornithosis).
Small rodent bites - special note:
- Although the bites of small rodents - hamster, guinea pig or mouse, leave large wounds, be aware that they may often be carriers of various bacteria and take the child to the doctor if any signs of wound infection appear (redness, swelling, pus, temperature, etc.).
