How to Treat a Cat or Dog Bite

Fluffy or Fido looked all cute and cuddly. But when you reached your hand down for a friendly pat, all you got was a handful of sharp, well-chiseled teeth. Now you're left with an open gash oozing blood. A thorough cleaning of the wound can prevent infection and speed the healing process.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soap and water
• Towel
• Sterile bandage
• Antibiotic ointment

1. Wash the cut carefully with soap and clean water. Be as gentle as you can so as not to cause further trauma.

2. Apply consistent pressure (for about 5 minutes or so) to the cut with a clean towel or cloth to stop the bleeding.

3. Apply a sterile bandage when bleeding is under control.

4. Dab the wound with antibiotic ointment twice a day until it heals.

5. Call your doctor if you were bitten (not just scratched) by a cat. Cat bites often lead to infection, so your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Tips & Warnings

• Notify the police or animal control officer in your community of the bite, especially if you were bitten by a stray animal or one you don't know. They will want to track down the animal and check it for diseases like rabies.
• Call your doctor if:
• You haven't had a tetanus shot within the last five years (you may need a booster).
• The wound is deep and gaping. It may need stitches to close properly.
• You have a disease like cancer, diabetes or an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis that weakens your body's ability to fight infection.
• The cut doesn't stop bleeding after applying 15 minutes of continuous pressure.
• You think you may have nerve damage or have broken a bone.