What will happen if bitten by a cat? - briefly
If bitten by a cat, the wound can become infected due to bacteria in their saliva, and prompt cleaning and medical attention are often necessary. In rare cases, cat bites may transmit diseases like cat-scratch fever or rabies.
What will happen if bitten by a cat? - in detail
When a cat bites, the severity of the consequences depends on the depth of the bite, the location, and the health of the cat. Cat bites often puncture the skin deeply, which can introduce bacteria from the cat’s mouth into the wound. The most common bacteria involved is Pasteurella multocida, which can cause rapid infection. Symptoms of an infected bite may include redness, swelling, warmth, and pain around the wound, as well as pus or discharge. In some cases, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues, leading to cellulitis, or even enter the bloodstream, causing sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition. Additionally, cat bites can transmit other pathogens, such as Bartonella henselae, which causes cat scratch disease, or less commonly, rabies if the cat is infected. Immediate first aid involves thoroughly cleaning the wound with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection. Seeking medical attention is crucial, especially if the bite is deep, the wound shows signs of infection, or the cat’s vaccination status is unknown. A healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics to prevent or treat infection and may recommend a tetanus shot or rabies prophylaxis depending on the circumstances. In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to clean the wound or address complications. Prompt and proper care significantly reduces the risk of serious health issues following a cat bite.