What to do if scratched by a rabid cat? - briefly
If scratched by a cat suspected of having rabies, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention promptly, as rabies is a fatal disease if left untreated. The medical professional will likely administer a series of rabies vaccinations and possibly rabies immune globulin to prevent the onset of symptoms. It is crucial to report the incident to local animal control or health authorities to monitor the cat's health and prevent potential spread of the disease. If the cat is available, it should be quarantined and observed for signs of rabies. If the cat is not available, post-exposure prophylaxis should be initiated without delay.
What to do if scratched by a rabid cat? - in detail
If you have been scratched by a cat suspected of having rabies, immediate and decisive action is crucial to ensure your safety and health. Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system, and it is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. However, prompt medical intervention can prevent the onset of symptoms and save your life.
Firstly, it is essential to remain calm but act quickly. Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 15 minutes. This step is vital to reduce the risk of infection and to remove any potential viral particles from the scratch. After cleaning, apply an antiseptic solution to further disinfect the area.
Next, seek immediate medical attention. Inform your healthcare provider about the incident, specifying that the cat was suspected of having rabies. Medical professionals will assess the severity of the scratch and the risk of rabies transmission. They will likely administer a series of rabies vaccinations and possibly rabies immunoglobulin, depending on your vaccination history and the circumstances of the exposure.
The rabies vaccine is typically given in a series of injections over a period of several weeks. The first dose is usually administered as soon as possible after exposure, followed by additional doses on specific days as recommended by medical guidelines. Rabies immunoglobulin, if necessary, is given at the same time as the first vaccine dose to provide immediate protection.
While receiving medical treatment, it is important to monitor the cat, if possible. If the cat can be captured and observed for signs of rabies over a 10-day period, it may not be necessary to complete the full course of rabies vaccinations. However, if the cat cannot be found or observed, or if it shows signs of rabies, the full course of vaccinations must be completed.
In addition to medical treatment, follow-up care is essential. Attend all scheduled vaccination appointments and follow your healthcare provider's instructions for wound care and monitoring for any signs of infection or adverse reactions to the vaccinations. Report any unusual symptoms or concerns to your healthcare provider immediately.
Education and awareness about rabies and its prevention are also important. Rabies is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, but scratches can also pose a risk if the animal's saliva comes into contact with broken skin. Vaccinate pets against rabies as recommended by veterinarians, and avoid contact with wild or stray animals to minimize the risk of exposure.
In summary, if scratched by a cat suspected of having rabies, clean the wound thoroughly, seek immediate medical attention, and follow the prescribed course of rabies vaccinations and immunoglobulin if necessary. Monitor the cat if possible, and attend all follow-up appointments. Educate yourself about rabies prevention to reduce the risk of future exposures.