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Symptoms of a Cat Bite Infection

Cats have bacteria in their mouths that is healthy for them, but can become troublesome when injected under a human's skin by their needle-like teeth. An infection caused by a bite can pose serious consequences, including hospitalization and tissue damage.

  1. Color & Warmth

    • Some pink tingeing around a cat bite is normal, but if the redness spreads outward or the area is warm to the touch, have a medical professional evaluate it.

    Swelling

    • Contact your physician if you note any swelling around the cat bite wound, particularly if it worsens over a short period of time.

    Odor

    • Seek immediate medical attention for a cat bite wound that has a yeasty or pungent odor.

    Drainage

    • Have any cat bite wound evaluated immediately if puss-like or greenish tinged drainage is present.

    Prevention

    • According to the Cat Site, one of the best ways to prevent cat bite infection is to allow the wound to bleed as much as possible right after the bite. Wash the wound with warm water and hydrogen peroxide/iodine before applying an antibiotic ointment.

    Warning

    • Seek emergency medical intervention for bites on the face. Due to the high risk of infection, all cat bite wounds should be checked by a physician.

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