Treating Cat Bite Infection

The cat saliva is a carrier of multiple bacteria and this is the reason why a cat bite is likely to get infected. A cat bite wound can turn into a serious infection within 12 hours after the biting and over 40% of wounds get infected.

Signs of Infection

The symptoms of an infected cat bite are swelling, redness, puss in the area and a fever. An infected wound needs immediate medical attention to avoid severe complications such as bone infections or gangrene.

Antibiotics Are the First Choice

Antibiotics are the best way to get rid of an infection. The doctor will prescribe oral antibiotics at first. Strong antibiotics such as penicillin or augmentin are recommended and in case the infection is severe, you will receive intravenous antibiotics. The intravenous treatment gets immediately in your blood stream and can help fight the infection more efficiently.

Alternative Remedies

If you are looking for alternative medicine solutions for your infected cat bite, you could use a simple naturist remedy. Grate a few carrots and press these on and around your wound. Cover the carrots with a sterile cloth and leave it for half an hour. Repeat the procedure after one hour. The carrots are supposed to extract the toxins from the wound and speed up the healing.

Another alternative remedy for cat bites is a more complex recipe. Use a bit of sterile clay mixed with medicinal herbs such as Berberis or Hydrastis (which are known for their antimicrobial properties). Apply this mixture on the wound and wait until the ointment gets dry. Remove the coating and apply several times.

Hydrotherapy can be a treatment solution for an early detected cat bite that is infected. Alternate hot and cold compresses on the wound and you will stimulate the circulation of the blood.

However, if after applying any of these remedies, the symptoms of infection still persist, seek specialized medical attention.

Tetanus Shot

If you are not certain about the immunization status of the cat that bit you, a series of rabies shots will be administrated. This is the post-exposure prophylaxis and will consist of one shot immediately after the bite and a cure of 5 shots in the following month.

Even if you know that the cat that bit you has no rabies, it is recommended to get a tetanus shot. If you had one in the last 5 years, you don't need a shot. The tetanus shot is needed within 72 hours of the cat bite.

 

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