How to Treat a Cat Bite

As many as 40 percent of cat bites become infected and require medical care. If you were to get bitten by a cat you should immediately clean the bite with a disinfectant and monitor it closely so that it doesn't get infected. If in doubt, always visit a doctor to be safe.

Instructions

• 1

  Clean the wound immediately with soap and water, rubbing alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide.

• 2

  Put pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding.

• 3

  Hold the wound above your heart if the bite is on your hand or arm.

• 4

  Place a clean bandage over the wound.

• 5

  Assess the wound for signs of infection: unusual redness or swelling, increasing warmth in the area, red streaking, or fever. See a doctor if signs of infection develop.

• 6

  Get a tetanus shot if your primary series is incomplete or if it has been more than five years since your last shot.

• 7

  Determine the rabies vaccine status of the cat. The cat should be observed for 15 days to see if it develops signs of rabies if its vaccine status is uncertain.