What should I do if my cat gets an abscess or infected bite wound?

What should I do if my cat gets an abscess or infected bite wound?

What should I do if my cat gets an abscess or infected bite wound? You should immediately take your cat to your veterinarian. If an abscess is present, your veterinarian will drain and flush the injured site. This may be done by removing the scabs over the original bite wounds or, more commonly, by lancing the skin over the abscess.

Can you get an infection from a cat bite?

All cat bites, from little nips to deep punctures, can result in swelling and other symptoms. Learn how to spot the signs of a cat bite infections so you know when it’s time to get medical help. Although both dog and cat saliva contain many types of bacteria, a person is more likely to get an infection from a cat bite than a dog bite.

What to do if you get a cat bite on your hand?

You should still clean the wound area with soap and water, but it’s unlikely you will have to take any action. Puncture wounds from a cat bite have a high risk of infection. Bites on the hand are also at a high risk of infection. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and cover with a sterile bandage.

How to tell if a cat bit you?

Wounds – Cat Bite Injuries to Humans 1 When a cat bites, its sharp canine teeth easily puncture… 2 Cat bites can be dangerous both to other animals and to humans. 3 It is advisable to see…

How can I tell if my cat has a bite wound?

Either the owner will be present for the fight or your cat will present with an open wound. In some instances, thick fur can hide larger cuts. Bite wounds can also take the form of punctures with little to no bleeding. In these cases, the only sign of a bite wound may be infection that forms at a later date.

How to treat an infection from a cat bite?

Treatment of a cat bite infection typically involves antibiotics. For first aid care, follow the advice above. Then see a doctor as soon as possible. Most physicians will prescribe antibiotics as a precaution, since cat bites can become infected (and the infection can spread) quickly.

Can a cat bite cause a bone infection?

For example, infections of bones (osteomyelitis) and joints may occur, especially if the bite occurred on the hand or finger—a common spot for cat bites. Also, infection may spread to the blood and then to other parts of the body, resulting in serious illness that requires hospitalization.

What are the risks of getting a cat bite?

Other risks of cat bites 1 Ruptured tendon. If the cat bite is deep, it can damage your tendon (s). 2 Nerve injury. According to a 2016 case report, cat bites can injure a nerve in rare cases. 3 Scars. Puncture wounds tend to heal quickly, but a very deep bite can leave a scar. 4 Foreign objects.