Is a cat bite dangerous? What should I do if a cat bites?
Cats are naturally playful animals, but they can sometimes bite humans during play, when they feel overwhelmed, or due to fear, discomfort, or defense. Cat bites can be dangerous in some cases because cats can carry the “Rabies Lyssavirus,” which causes rabies, a fatal encephalitic disease that results in about 59,000 human deaths annually. Don’t skip this article to get informed about everything related to cat biting.
Rabies
Rabies is spread through infected cat bites, licking, or saliva. Sometimes, it can be transmitted through eye and mouth contact with mucus membranes.
Symptoms
The symptoms can occur one after another. Usually, fever is the first stage of rabies symptoms, and then it may progress to:
1.Headache
2.Anxiety
3.Sore throat
4.Nausea and vomiting
5.Discomfort around the bitten area
6. Muscle twitching
7. Paralysis
8. Difficulty breathing
9. Excessive salivation
10.Hydrophobia (fear of water)
Treatment
1. Immediately wash the bitten area with soapy water, detergent, or povidone-iodine for 5-15 minutes.
2. Seek medical help. A healthcare provider will examine the wound, and a vaccine shot might be required.
3.Antiseptics like alcohol and hydrogen peroxide are not recommended for washing the wound.
Not all cats usually carry rabies unless they are contaminated by other infected animals. If your cat is a pet cat that doesn’t have outdoor access and receives regular vaccines, there’s no reason to fear rabies. However, if it’s a wild cat and you don’t know its background, post-bite vaccination is recommended. Generally, cat bites become deep wounds due to their sharp teeth, increasing the risk of infection. Seek a doctor’s recommendation if you are concerned.