Why are cat bites so dangerous compared to other animals?
Mostly, cat bites are so damaging because of the long, needle-like teeth and the depth of wound they inflict.
This two-fold injury - the bite and the bacteria that accompanies it - are not to be taken lightly. As a matter of fact, those tiny puncture wounds heal quickly and it's easy to dismiss the incident. The problem is when the surface heals, the bacteria is trapped and will spread.
In their mouths, all cats carry a large number of bacteria that are capable of causing tissue infections in bite wounds. One of the more common is highly pathogenic bacterium known as Pasteurella multocida. An infected cat bite wound will be red, swollen and painful, and the infection can spread through the surrounding tissues, causing a condition called cellulitis, or through the blood to other areas of the body, causing a condition called septicemia (often called "blood poisoning"). Infected people may suffer from fever and flu-like symptoms and, rarely, may die if proper medical treatment is not sought. Children, the elderly, ill and immunosuppressed individuals are particularly vulnerable to developing severe infections if bitten by a cat.
You can reduce the likelihood of infection by following a few steps immediately after being bitten.
The wound should immediately be washed under running water. Avoid scrubbing the wounds vigorously, or using strong disinfectants or other chemicals, since this may harm tissue and delay wound healing. You may clean the wound with a mild salt solution, made by mixing 1 teaspoon (5 mls) of table salt in 2 cups (500 mls) of water. Control bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound using an absorbent dressing or bandage.
You should see a physician as soon as possible. Most cat bite wounds are small punctures that drive pathogenic bacteria deep into the skin. Left untreated, a serious infection can develop within twenty-four to forty-eight hours.
(emphasis mine)
Although rare these days, it is possible for rabies to be transmitted to humans from infected feral or stray cats. If bitten by a feral or stray, do your best to catch the culprit so it can be tested. If not, your doctor may recommend precautionary treatment which consists of a series of vaccination injections. That prospect adds a little extra motivation to trap the biter, plus you may be saving someone else the concern a bite like this can cause.
Upvote, ReSteem,
THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
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Good kitty! That's exactly the spot.
I can still see where I got bit a couple months ago. I have one feral cat (Hairston Ascot III) that has never socialized so well. He's good at home, but not going to the vet. He got both of us! No infection, but boy, three teeth in my index finger was not what I wanted that day! And why do cat scratches hurt worse than any other scratches???
Dang, he sounds like a live wire! And, you're right... trying to hold on to a cat who doesn't want to be held is a nightmare. Might as well stick your hand in a buzzsaw. They're so quick, they can nail you before you've realized they've even moved. Am not sure why the scratches hurt more (and they do) unless it's because they dig in deeper just like the teeth, plus they slice. Am so glad you avoided infection. I'm sure the vet was helpful for recommending treatment for you, too!
The clinic washed me up with medical stuff right away and told me to watch for signs of infection. They do a lot of low-cost spay and neuter services, so they see a lot of wild cats -- and treat a lot of scratches and bites for people, too!
Well, if you're going to get scratched and/or bitten, you chose the perfect location! Very efficient! ;-p
: )
Very interesting. Thank you.
You're welcome. This is information we hope we never have to use.
;-D
Yes, let's hope!