Even though cats are friendly and delicate creatures, they might bite you when you are afraid or frightened. Some cats bite normally while playing. In case they bite, it may not appear to be serious but it is not safe in some cases, cat bite might cause infection.
Cats have numerous bacteria in their mouths that will lead to various infections. Additionally, the sharp teeth of cats effectively cut the skin, causing little yet profound injuries to the skin.
Key Takeaways:
- As cats’ teeth are extremely pointed and sharp, there are greater chances that bacteria will be infused into the tissues of your skin when they bite you.
- Mostly household cats are vaccinated in case if the cat is not vaccinated than you should not ignore the bite and take immediate action.
Cat Bite Might Cause Infection:
As cats’ teeth are extremely pointed and sharp, there are greater chances that bacteria will be infused into the tissues of your skin when they bite you. The opening of that bite can rapidly seal over and transfer bacteria from the cat’s mouth. The inner layers of your skin are dark and warm, making it an ideal place for developing bacteria. One of the common skin diseases caused by a bite is called cellulitis.
Let’s discuss some of the infections caused by cats below:
Rabies:
Similar to several other mammals, cats cause rabies in human beings. If it is not treated properly, it will be very fatal. However, it is an incredibly rare disease. Numerous cats are vaccinated against this infection in the early months after their birth. In case a cat is not vaccinated against rabies, you should not ignore the bite and take immediate action.
Pasteurella Multocida:
It is a kind of bacteria often found in the cat’s mouth. Pasteurella multocida can lead to certain diseases after a bite. Also, immunocompromised individuals have greater chances of fostering serious diseases from the bacteria.
Tetanus:
Another disease caused by a cat bite is known as tetanus. There is a bacteria called Clostridium tetani, which often leads to another disease, tetanus. In case 5 years have passed since you had your last tetanus booster, it is highly suggested to get one immediately after a bite.
Is there a Need to Visit the Doctor?
It is highly recommended to visit a doctor immediately to treat the wound appropriately. The doctor will recommend the best oral antibiotics and antibiotic ointment to decrease the risk of various infections spreading somewhere in your body or at the spot of a bite.
Common Treatments Provided by Doctors :
The best treatment depends on the severity and conditions of the bite. Some of the most common treatments provided by doctors are:
Stitches:
Stitches treat some wounds. However, there are some cases in which stitches are not required, and the wound heals on its own.
Antibiotics:
The most common treatment provided by doctors is antibiotics. However, some bites are cured with oral medication, while others need antibiotics via an IV (intravenous).
Tetanus Booster:
It is another treatment offered by a doctor in case of a bite in case you last got it in the past five years.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/animal-bite-infections
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/wounds-cat-bite-injuries-to-humans
