All cat owners will know that there are times when the cat will nip at you. Cat bites can causing anything from a small gash to an open wound. it is crucial to know not only what can result from a cat bite but how to treat cat bites to prevent any diseases from spreading to us.
The Reasons Why a Cat Would Bite a Human
In general, cats bite people for one or two reasons. First of all, you may have been playing too rough with your frisky feline, which causes your cat to respond with a bite. Additionally, cats may bite is if they are upset about something you have done or just upset in general. Cats are creatures that like their own space and they may act out by giving someone in their area a slight nip or worse.
Treatment of Cat Bites
You could treat cat bites by washing the cut with soap, applying antiseptic cream and pasting a plaster over the wound. This will ensure that the wound is clean and free from bacteria.
What is the Cat Scratch Disease?
A bite or scratch from a cat may lead to a more serious medical condition known as the cat scratch disease. The cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection caused by a cat's bite or scratch. It can also be caused when a cat licks an open wound. Cats get the bacteria from fleas, and transmit it to humans via their saliva Cat scratch disease in cats does not harm the cat itself but provides complications for the person bitten, scratched, or licked.
Symptoms of Cat Scratch Disease
The main symptom of cat scratch disease is the swelling of the lymph nodes. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, fatigue, sore throat, headache or fever.
Treatment of Cat Scratch Disease
Most incidents of cat scratch disease will heal on their own. Over-the-counter medicine like acetaminophen or Advil could help alleviate the pain in the lymph nodes. It is a good idea to see a doctor to confirm diagnosis and seek treatment if you are unsure unsure what to do some of the more serious cases of cat scratch disease may require prescription antibiotics to heal.
Prevention of Cat Scratch Disease
The best way to avoid getting cat scratch disease is by the prevention of cat bites and scratches. You should back off whenever a cat shows any of the following warning signs like meowing in an angry tone, moving their ears backwards, harmlessly swiping you or hissing. Additionally, wash your hands immediately after touching a cat. Lastly, wash your wound as mentioned earlier if you have been bitten or scratched by a cat.
