Cat bite and scratch
Cats primarily inflict scratches or puncture wounds when they bite. After a cat bite or scratch, there is a possibility of developing various infections, which makes these injuries medically significant.
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How to prevent cat bites and scratches?
- Explain to children how to treat cats safely. Emphasize that they should not be disturbed or teased, especially when feeding or caring for kittens; prevent rough treatment and play in the first place, as this can cause the cat to bite or scratch. Teach your child not to try to pet stray or unfamiliar cats.
What to do if a cat has bitten or scratched your child?
- Rinse the wound with soap and water as soon as possible. If there is bleeding, it must be stopped.
- If a pet cat has bitten the child, ask the cat owner for the following information: name, address and telephone number of the owner, proof of rabies vaccination, and information about the veterinarian who vaccinated and previously treated the cat.
- If a stray cat has bitten the child, contact the Communal Animal Hygiene Service in your country, whose team will go out in the field and determine the animal's vaccination status.
- Be sure to see a doctor as soon as possible, as treating a cat bite or scratch may require additional therapy, tetanus or rabies vaccine.
