From the Guidelines
Cat bites require immediate cleaning with soap and water for at least 5 minutes to reduce infection risk, and a healthcare provider will likely prescribe antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) 875/125 mg twice daily for 5-7 days, as recommended by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1. The treatment of cat bites should prioritize the prevention of infection, particularly with Pasteurella multocida, which can cause infection within 24-48 hours. Some key points to consider in the treatment of cat bites include:
- Immediate cleaning with soap and water for at least 5 minutes to reduce infection risk
- Application of an antiseptic like hydrogen peroxide or povidone-iodine
- Covering the wound with a clean bandage
- Seeking medical attention promptly, as cat bites have a high infection rate due to their deep, puncture-like nature
- Watching for signs of infection, including increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, red streaks, or fever
- Considering a tetanus booster if the patient's tetanus vaccination is not current (within 5 years) The choice of antibiotic should be based on the most recent and highest quality evidence, which recommends amoxicillin-clavulanate as the first-line treatment for cat bites 1. It is also important to note that cat bites on hands, joints, or tendons require special attention, as infections in these areas can lead to serious complications. In addition to antibiotic treatment, the patient should be monitored for signs of infection and receive follow-up care to ensure that the wound is healing properly. Overall, the treatment of cat bites should prioritize the prevention of infection and the promotion of wound healing, with a focus on reducing the risk of complications and promoting the best possible outcomes for the patient.
From the Research
Cat Bite Treatment Overview
- Cat bites account for a significant portion of animal bites, with associated health care costs and risks of infection.
- The treatment of cat bites involves several key steps to prevent infection and promote healing.
Treatment Steps
- Cleaning and irrigation: Bite wounds should be cleaned and copiously irrigated with normal saline using a 20-mL or larger syringe or a 20-gauge catheter attached to the syringe 2.
- Exploration: The wound should be explored for tendon or bone involvement and possible foreign bodies.
- Closure: Wounds may be closed if cosmetically favorable, such as wounds on the face or gaping wounds.
- Antibiotic prophylaxis: Antibiotic prophylaxis should be considered, especially if there is a high risk of infection, such as with cat bites, with puncture wounds, with wounds to the hand, and in persons who are immunosuppressed 2.
- Rabies prophylaxis: The need for rabies prophylaxis should be addressed with any animal bite, including cat bites, as even domestic animals are often unvaccinated 2.
Antibiotic Prophylaxis
- Amoxicillin/clavulanate is the first-line prophylactic antibiotic for cat bites, especially in high-risk cases 2.
- The decision to use antibiotic prophylaxis should be based on the individual case and the risk of infection.
Postexposure Rabies Prophylaxis
- Postexposure rabies prophylaxis consists of immune globulin at presentation and vaccination on days 0,3,7, and 14 2.