Can I get an infection from my cat biting me?
Are cat bites dangerous? Cat bites can be dangerous both to other animals and to humans. In their mouths, all cats carry a large number of bacteria that are capable of causing tissue infections in bite wounds. One of the more common is highly pathogenic bacteria known as Pasteurella multocida.
How long does a cat bite infection last?
How long will it take for the bite wound to heal? With appropriate treatment, most abscesses should heal within five to seven days. The swelling associated with cellulitis may take longer.
How do you treat an infected cat bite at home?
What to do if a cat bites you. First, you want to try to flush out as much bacteria as possible and then irrigate the wound with water. Next, wash the wound with mild soap and water. Slow the bleeding with a clean cloth and apply over-the-counter antibiotic cream if you have it.
What is the best antibiotic for cat bites?
Amoxicillin with clavulanate is the current recommendation for antibiotic treatment for cat bites. In penicillin-allergic patients or those with penicillin-resistant strains, other alternatives are necessary.
What is the best antibiotic for a cat bite?
Should you put peroxide on a cat bite?
After 24 to 48 hours, gently wash the wound with clean water 2 times a day. Do not scrub or soak the wound. Don’t use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing. You may cover the wound with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a non-stick bandage.
Cephalosporins
What are the dangers of a cat bite?
Cat bites are exceptionally dangerous and prone to infection because a cat’s needle-like teeth can push bacteria deep into flesh, tendons and joints. The small but deep puncture wounds are hard to thoroughly clean and tend to trap bacteria inside, where it quickly spreads.
Why is my cat bite swollen?
A few days after the bite when the bacteria has multiplied, there is often a swelling under the skin, where pus has accumulated, being trapped by the wound having closed over. This is called an abscess. Touching the area will seem to hurt the cat, and the cat might even lash out at you if you you touch the wound area.
Are cat bites dangerous?
Cat bites can be dangerous both to other animals and to humans. In their mouths, all cats carry a large number of bacteria that are capable of causing tissue infections in bite wounds. One of the more common is highly pathogenic bacteria known as Pasteurella multocida.