Cat scratches can burn, itch and be downright painful. They may be accidental on the part of your cat, but if left untreated, they can become infected and leave scars. It's important to treat them promptly to prevent problems. For those with sensitive skin, the inflammation can spread beyond the immediately affected area. Like dirty fingernails, cats' claws often have material or bacteria on or under them. Remember, they use them to dig in their litter trays, walk around outside, scramble up trees, and more. When they puncture your skin, that stuff is right there, like putting dirt in a wound. The good news is that there are five simple steps you can take when you have a too-close encounter with a cat.
Use mild hand soap and warm water to wash the cat scratch and the area around it. Flush the area thoroughly with warm water to rinse any material and leftover soap away. Dab gently with a paper towel until dry. This alone will often take care of the problem because you will have removed the irritants, and the itchy-burning feeling will fade away within a few minutes.
Step2
Kill the bacteria. For added insurance and to minimize the risk of bacterial infection, use an anti-bacterial ointment such as Neosporin on the scratch. Follow the directions on the tube or box for proper use.
Step3
Use lavender oil. As an alternative to an anti-bacterial ointment, pure 100 percent essential lavender oil helps fight against bacteria, accelerates healing, and reduces scarring. Use one to two drops and gently spread or dab around the edges of the scratch with clean fingers or a Q-tip swab. Do not put directly in the scratch.
Step4
After you perform Step 2 or Step 3, cover the cat scratch with a bandaid that breathes (don't use one that's waterproof). For longer scratches, you can cut a strip of sterile medical gauze and use medical tape to secure it. You want the wound to be able to breathe. Avoid getting it wet for a few hours until a scab sets.
Step5
Make sure the cat scratches have started to scab and heal by peeking under the bandage after a couple of hours. If redness and irritation persist around the scratch, or it starts to ooze, seek out your health care professional. There may be an infection.
Tips & Warnings
Cat scratches can itch and burn. Don't scratch them as you'll only irritate the skin.
When playing with your cat, to protect your arms wear long sleeves if you're coming in close contact.
Consider playing with your cat by using toys such as a dingle ball or a piece of string so they "attack" it instead of you.
Be aware of Cat Scratch Disease which cats sometimes carry and can be transmitted when they scratch or bite you. Cat Scratch Disease is a bacterial infection. The main symptom is the swelling of the lymph nodes. Other symptoms may include headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, a sore throat or fever.
Some people are highly allergic to animals. If this is the case, promptly get them to a health care professional.
Deep scratches that bleed heavily should be checked by a health care professional. Stitches may be required.
Novice 
