Cats’ Sharp Teeth Can Deliver a Big Infection
When the cat bites, pay attention.
While dog bites can do widespread damage that obviously need care, cat bites can be overlooked because they seem so small.
Cats’ sharp teeth often penetrate deeply, creating punctures that may not seem serious but often include bacteria from their mouths. When cat bites get infected, wounds may need to be surgically cleaned. A Mayo Clinic study found that of 193 patients who came in for cat bites on their hands over a three-year period, 30 percent had to be hospitalized for an average stay of 3.2 days.
If you have a cat bite that gets swollen or red, consult your healthcare provider or go directly to an emergency room.