Animal scratches and bites: why these are different
A puncture from a tooth looks trivial and carries one of the highest infection rates of any wound.
Bites drive mouth bacteria deep into tissue through a small opening that then closes over. Cat bites are the worst offenders because their teeth are fine and penetrate deeply.
Immediately
- Wash under running water for several minutes. Volume matters here more than anything else.
- Control bleeding with pressure.
- Cover with a clean dressing.
Then get it seen
Most bites that break the skin should be assessed the same day — particularly cat bites, bites on the hand, and any bite in someone with diabetes or a weakened immune system. Antibiotics are often given preventively rather than waiting for infection to appear.
Do not close it
Do not use closure strips on a bite. Sealing bacteria inside a puncture is exactly the wrong move, which is why these wounds are usually left open deliberately.
Also consider
Tetanus status for any dirty wound, and rabies risk for bites abroad or from wild animals — seek advice urgently in those cases.
See a pharmacist, GP or urgent care if a wound will not stop bleeding after ten minutes of firm pressure, is deep or gaping, was caused by something dirty or rusty, contains anything you cannot flush out, or shows spreading redness, heat, swelling, pus or a fever. Get help urgently for animal or human bites, wounds over a joint, and any wound in someone with diabetes or poor circulation.
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FitMedix products are CE-marked medical devices intended for the care of minor wounds. This site does not provide medical advice — seek professional help for deep, dirty or non-healing wounds, or if signs of infection appear. Always read the instructions on the pack.