From the Guidelines
If you've been bitten by a cat during pregnancy, seek medical attention immediately, as cat bites can cause serious infections that may require antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) 875/125 mg twice daily for 5-7 days. Cat bites can lead to severe infections, including osteomyelitis and septic arthritis, with a higher prevalence of anaerobes and P. multocida compared to dog bites 1. It is essential to clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 5 minutes, apply an antiseptic like povidone-iodine, and cover with a clean bandage.
Key Considerations
- Watch for signs of infection, including increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or pus
- Cat bites are particularly concerning due to their long, narrow teeth, which can create deep puncture wounds that trap bacteria
- Cats can carry Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that poses special risks during pregnancy and can cause toxoplasmosis, although most cat bites don't transmit toxoplasmosis 1
Treatment Options
- Amoxicillin-clavulanate is recommended for oral, outpatient therapy, as it has been studied in a small series and is effective against P. multocida and anaerobes 1
- Alternative oral agents include doxycycline, as well as penicillin VK plus dicloxacillin, but first-generation cephalosporins, such as cephalexin, and macrolides, such as erythromycin, should be avoided due to poor in vitro activity against P. multocida 1
From the Research
Cat Bites and Pregnancy
There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding cat bites and pregnancy.
General Information on Cat Bites
- Cat bites can lead to infection, with Pasteurella multocida being a common cause of infection 2, 3.
- Antibiotic prophylaxis, such as amoxicillin/clavulanate, is recommended for cat bites, especially for puncture wounds or wounds to the hand 2, 3.
- The risk of rabies infection should also be addressed with any animal bite 2, 3.
Management of Animal Bites
- Bite wounds should be cleaned, copiously irrigated with normal saline, and explored for tendon or bone involvement and possible foreign bodies 2.
- Wounds may be closed if cosmetically favorable, such as wounds on the face or gaping wounds 2.
- Tetanus immunization status should be routinely addressed in bite wound management 3, 4.