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Suggest Treatment For Swollen And Painful Cat Bite On Hand
Question: I was grooming my cat today, and she bit me - a small puncture on the back of my left hand. Within an hour the back of my hand is swollen and extremely sore. I have limited use of the hand because it's painful to bend the fingers. I used peroxide and an antibacterial ointment, but hasn't helped yet. Should I go to the emergency room?
Brief Answer:
antibiotic treatment might be needed
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
cat bites are prone to infection because the cat's teeth are sharp and long and may introduce bacteria deep into the wound. Swelling and pain are signs of inflammation, which means that infection is possible.
You should visit your doctor for clinical examination. Antibiotic treatment and tetanus prophylaxis might be indicated. Regarding tetanus prophylaxis, if you haven't had any shot in the past 5 years, you should receive a repeat dose, provided you've been vaccinated in the past.
I hope you find my comments helpful!
You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind Regards!
antibiotic treatment might be needed
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
cat bites are prone to infection because the cat's teeth are sharp and long and may introduce bacteria deep into the wound. Swelling and pain are signs of inflammation, which means that infection is possible.
You should visit your doctor for clinical examination. Antibiotic treatment and tetanus prophylaxis might be indicated. Regarding tetanus prophylaxis, if you haven't had any shot in the past 5 years, you should receive a repeat dose, provided you've been vaccinated in the past.
I hope you find my comments helpful!
You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind Regards!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
I can't get to my doctor until Monday. If it's no better in the morning, should I go to the ER and get a tetanus shot? Would ice help?
Brief Answer:
visit the ER
Detailed Answer:
If you can't see your doctor then you'd better visit the ER. If it's infected, antibiotics will have to be started as soon as possible. The tetanus shot should be done if you haven't been vaccinated the last 5 years. I wouldn't advice using ice for it.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery!
visit the ER
Detailed Answer:
If you can't see your doctor then you'd better visit the ER. If it's infected, antibiotics will have to be started as soon as possible. The tetanus shot should be done if you haven't been vaccinated the last 5 years. I wouldn't advice using ice for it.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery!
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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