Cat Bite Injury: Do You Need Tetanus and Disinfection?

Bitten by a stray cat?

This morning around six o'clock, I accidentally got bitten on the ankle by the school cat.
The wound is not deep, but there is slight redness and swelling.
I rinsed it with water afterward.
Do I need to disinfect it or get a tetanus shot? If a tetanus shot is necessary, can I get it in the evening?

Julie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/25

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! It is generally recommended to receive a tetanus shot if you haven't had one in the past six months.
If more than 24 hours have passed without receiving the shot, just monitor the situation.
For wounds caused by cats or dogs, they should be rinsed with saline solution; do not use tap water under any circumstances.
After rinsing with saline, apply a topical antibiotic ointment using a sterile cotton swab.
Although the oral cavity of cats and dogs is not as dirty as that of humans, it is still advisable to take prophylactic antibiotics.
Closely monitor the wound and follow up at the clinic.
If there is redness, swelling, heat, or pain, debridement should be performed, treating it as cellulitis.
If oral antibiotics are ineffective, hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics may be necessary.
Of course, regular dressing changes are the best form of antibiotic treatment, so it is recommended to have a physician evaluate the situation.

Reply Date: 2015/09/25

More Info

When it comes to cat bite injuries, it's essential to take appropriate steps to ensure your health and safety. Cat bites can lead to various complications, including infections and, in rare cases, transmission of diseases such as rabies. However, rabies transmission from domestic cats is extremely rare, especially in regions where rabies is well-controlled.
In your case, since you were bitten by a school cat, the first step is to assess the severity of the wound. You mentioned that the injury is not deep but has some redness and swelling. It's good that you have already rinsed the wound with water, as this is a crucial first step in wound care. Here are the recommended steps you should follow:
1. Disinfection: After rinsing the wound, it is advisable to clean it with soap and water thoroughly. Following that, you can apply an antiseptic solution, such as iodine or hydrogen peroxide, to help prevent infection. Make sure to let the antiseptic dry before covering the wound.

2. Tetanus Vaccination: Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that can occur if bacteria enter the body through a wound. The need for a tetanus shot depends on your vaccination history and the nature of the wound. If you have had a tetanus booster within the last five years and the wound is minor, you may not need another shot. However, if it has been more than five years since your last booster, or if the wound is more than a simple scratch, it is advisable to get a tetanus booster. You can receive the vaccine later in the day if necessary, but it is best to do so as soon as possible.

3. Monitoring for Infection: After cleaning and disinfecting the wound, keep an eye on it for signs of infection. Symptoms to watch for include increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus or drainage, and worsening pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

4. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If you are unsure about your tetanus vaccination status or if the wound appears to be worsening, it is wise to consult a healthcare provider. They can assess the wound and determine if further treatment, such as antibiotics, is necessary.

5. Rabies Consideration: While rabies is a concern with animal bites, the risk from domestic cats is low, especially if the cat is healthy and has been vaccinated. If you have any concerns about rabies, especially if the cat was acting strangely or if its vaccination status is unknown, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

In summary, for your cat bite injury, ensure proper cleaning and disinfection of the wound, assess your tetanus vaccination status, and monitor for any signs of infection. If in doubt, don't hesitate to seek medical advice. Taking these steps will help ensure your safety and well-being following the bite.

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