While this week is National Dog Bite Prevention Week, it’s important to remember that all animals can and will bite.  Many of the points mentioned in the blog earlier this week also apply to any animal.

Cat bites can be especially dangerous, even when they don’t look bad.  Cats are known for their redirected aggression, meaning if they are mad about something, and you are in the way, you will get the result of the anger.

Any cat bite that breaks the skin should be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible.  Immediately wash scratches and bites with warm, soapy water and see your doctor.  Cat bites require strong antibiotics to prevent infection that can quickly spread.  Left untreated, the infection will spread and can result in the need to be hospitalized with IV antibiotics and/or surgery.

Always be cautious around stray and feral cats.  Even if they come to eat on your porch and sometimes let you pet them, the slightest thing they perceive as a threat (loud car, barking dog, a sudden move) will cause them to react.  If they feel trapped or threatened, they can and will bite as a defense.  Be cautious if you are trying to catch a cat that is either stray or feral, or even cats you know who have accidentally slipped out the door.

Teach children at an early age how to approach animals, especially pet cats and dogs.  Never leave a child alone with any animal.  It takes only seconds for that animal to feel threatened and react.

Make sure all pet dogs, cats and ferrets are current on their rabies vaccine in accordance to local laws.  Check with your local health department or veterinarian for the laws in your area.

Never reach into an animal fight.  This applies to dogs, cats, ferrets, or any other animal.  They may not realize the hand reaching in is that of their owner and will bite at whatever is in their way.  Instead, make a loud noise, rattle a can with rocks or coins, or spray the fighting animals with water to startle them and allow them to separate.  Any pet who has been in a fight with another animal should be seen by a veterinarian.  Animal bites can sometimes need stitches and often will need antibiotics, even if the bites don’t appear to be that bad.

Finally, if you have or find an injured animal and are trying to transport it to the veterinarian, be very careful.  Try to secure a leash around the animal if possible to prevent it from trying to run away.  If you don’t have a muzzle, a nylon leash or strip of cloth tied around the mouth will work as a muzzle (tight enough to keep the dog from opening its mouth, but not too tight as to cause additional pain).  A towel or sheet covering the dog’s head may help to calm the dog.  When catching a small animal such as a cat, use a thick towel cover the animal before picking it up.

Animal bites are going to happen, but using caution and knowledge will help reduce the number and severity of the bites.