From the Guidelines
For a cat bite, the most effective antibiotic is typically amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin), usually prescribed at 875/125 mg taken orally twice daily for 5-7 days. This recommendation is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which suggests that amoxicillin-clavulanate is effective against the mixed bacterial flora found in cat bites, including Pasteurella multocida, which is commonly present in cats' mouths and can cause rapid infection 1.
Key Considerations
- Cat bites are particularly concerning because their sharp teeth can create deep puncture wounds that seal quickly, trapping bacteria inside.
- It's crucial to seek medical attention promptly after a cat bite, ideally within 8 hours, as infections can develop rapidly.
- Before medical care, clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 5 minutes, apply an antiseptic, and elevate the affected area if possible.
Alternative Options
- For people with penicillin allergies, alternatives include doxycycline, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole plus clindamycin, or a fluoroquinolone like ciprofloxacin 1.
- Cat bites to the hand, face, or near joints require especially urgent care due to the risk of serious complications.
- The bacteriology of these wounds can differentiate the number of isolates per wound and whether additional coverage for anaerobes is required 1.
Important Notes
- First-generation cephalosporins, such as cephalexin, penicillinase-resistant penicillins (e.g., dicloxacillin), macrolides (e.g., erythromycin), and clindamycin, all have poor in vitro activity against P. multocida and should be avoided 1.
- Broader empirical coverage for abscesses might yield better therapeutic results, and a more focused therapy for nonpurulent infected wounds could allow narrower therapy 1.
From the Research
Effective Antibiotics for Cat Bites
The most effective antibiotics for cat bites are those that target the common bacteria found in these wounds, including Pasteurella multocida, Staphylococcus aureus, and anaerobes.
- Amoxicillin-clavulanate is recommended for the treatment of cat bites due to its broad-spectrum coverage of these bacteria 2, 3, 4, 5.
- This antibiotic combination has been shown to be effective against P. multocida, with high susceptibility rates observed in studies 4.
- Other antibiotics, such as moxifloxacin, may also be effective, but amoxicillin-clavulanate is generally considered the first-line treatment for cat bites 2.
Key Considerations
When treating cat bites, it is essential to consider the following factors:
- The risk of infection is higher for cat bites than dog bites, with 20-80% of cat bites becoming infected 4.
- P. multocida is the most commonly cultured bacterium from infected cat bite wounds, and antibiotic therapy should target this bacterium 3, 4.
- Prophylactic antibiotic therapy may be necessary for high-risk bites or for patients at risk of developing severe infection 6.