How should the bite site be treated on a cat? - briefly
Clean the wound with a mild antiseptic solution, apply a sterile dressing, and observe for signs of infection, seeking veterinary evaluation promptly. If a veterinarian prescribes antibiotics, administer them as directed and restrict the cat’s activity to prevent additional injury.
How should the bite site be treated on a cat? - in detail
When a cat sustains a bite, immediate care reduces infection risk and promotes healing.
First, assess the injury. Look for puncture marks, swelling, bleeding, and signs of tissue damage. If the cat is in pain or the wound appears deep, seek veterinary assistance without delay.
Clean the area promptly. Rinse with sterile saline or clean water at a gentle flow to remove debris. Do not use harsh antiseptics such as hydrogen peroxide or iodine directly on exposed tissue, as they can irritate and delay healing. After rinsing, dab the surface with a sterile gauze pad soaked in a mild antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine diluted to 0.05%).
Apply pressure with a clean gauze pad to control bleeding. Maintain pressure for several minutes until hemorrhage subsides. If bleeding persists, contact a veterinarian.
After hemostasis, cover the wound with a non‑adhesive sterile dressing. Secure with a light bandage that does not restrict circulation. Change the dressing at least once daily, or more often if it becomes wet or soiled.
Administer systemic antibiotics as prescribed by a veterinarian. Common choices include amoxicillin‑clavulanate or a broad‑spectrum fluoroquinolone, especially for deep punctures. Follow the dosage schedule strictly and complete the full course, even if the wound looks improved.
Monitor for complications. Watch for increasing redness, swelling, heat, pus, foul odor, or a rise in the cat’s temperature. Any of these signs warrants immediate veterinary evaluation.
Pain management may be required. Veterinarians often recommend non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other analgesics tailored to the cat’s health status.
When the wound shows signs of granulation and no infection, gradually reduce bandaging frequency. Allow the area to air‑dry for short periods to encourage epithelialization, but protect it from the cat’s licking or scratching using an Elizabethan collar if necessary.
Finally, schedule a follow‑up examination to confirm proper healing and to address any underlying conditions that may have contributed to the bite incident.