First Aid for Cat Bites and Scratches
First Aid for Cat Bites and Scratches
All animals are capable of inflicting bites and scratches. Smaller animals (rodents and rabbits) generally deliver minor wounds. Larger species (cats and dogs) are capable of inflicting larger wounds. Bites and scratches from nonhuman primates are capable of inflicting severe wounds.
All bites and scratches can expose individuals to biologic hazards which may be transmitted through saliva, secretions, and/or blood. These injuries may be preventable if individuals are trained in the use of proper animal handling techniques and using appropriate personal protective equipment, especially face/eye protection and hand protection. Animals known to be aggressive should be handled by at least two individuals.
If an individual has been bitten by a cat, the attending veterinarian must be notified as well as the individual’s supervisor. The veterinarian will have to determine if the cat in question has any potential for transmitting rabies which may result in the cat being placed under quarantine and observation for a time period specified by the attending veterinarian. Rabies vaccination is available to personnel who handle cats through the Employee Health Service. Personnel who may be pregnant should contact EHS for counseling regarding precautions to prevent Toxoplasmosis; this infectious organism can cause severe disease in unborn babies. There may be a concern for cat scratch disease; individuals should contact the attending veterinarian and EHS.
