Cat Bite Treatment: First Aid & When to See a Vet

Immediate First Aid (Human Bite Victim)

1. Wash thoroughly: Flush wound with soap and running water for 5–10 minutes.
2. Control bleeding: Apply direct pressure with clean cloth.
3. Apply antibiotic ointment: If available (e.g., bacitracin).
4. Cover: Sterile bandage.
5. Seek medical attention promptly: Cat bites puncture deeply, injecting bacteria (especially Pasteurella multocida) into joints/tendon sheaths. Infection risk is high (30–50%).

When to Seek Care Urgently

• Deep puncture, especially over joint/tendon.
• Signs of infection: spreading redness, swelling, warmth, pus, red streaks, fever.
• Immunocompromised, diabetic, or asplenic patient.
• Bite on face, hand, foot, or genital area.
• Unknown rabies vaccination status of cat.

Veterinary Advice for the Cat

This article addresses human first aid. For the cat's health/behavior, consult a veterinarian.