Animal Bites and Scratches

Reporting

Report severe animal bites to animal control or your local health department.

When to go to the emergency room (ER)

A bite that barely breaks the skin often isn't cause for concern. But get emergency medical care if you:

• Have a deep puncture wound or badly torn skin

• Have redness, swelling, or warmth near the wound

• Think you may have a broken bone or other serious injury

• The attack was unprovoked, and you don't know the animal. Rabies must be ruled out.

• Are bitten by a domestic cat, a small animal such as a rabbit or guinea pig, or a wild animal such as a skunk, raccoon, or bat

• Don't have a spleen or have a weak immune system

You may need a tetanus booster.

What to expect in the ER

• The wound will be carefully cleaned and inspected.

• X-rays may be taken if deep damage is suspected, or to make sure a small piece of the animal's tooth is not left embedded in the wound.

• Infection can occur, especially if you have a cat bite, deep wound, or weak immune system. You may be given antibiotics to help prevent this.

• You may be given a tetanus shot if you haven't had one in the past 5 years. If rabies is a concern, you may be given shots to protect you.

• If serious tissue or joint damage has been done, you may be referred to a plastic or orthopedic surgeon.

Follow-up care

You will likely need to see your healthcare provider within a day or 2 of getting emergency medical treatment. In the meantime, watch for signs of infection. These include:

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider

• Swelling

• Redness

• Pus draining from the wound