For cat lovers, nothing compares to the feeling of a kitty purring on your lap. However, even the most docile cats have their moments, one of which is when they scratch. Whether out of excitement, fear, or aggression, a cat’s claws can damage both you and your belongings.
The bad news is that your feline family member can also get sick or injured if they scratch you. If your cat scratches you hard enough, they can break through the skin and cause bleeding. A cat scratch can even become infected in some cases, requiring you to take them to an emergency pet hospital.
This post lets you better understand what cat scratches are and what they can do to theirs and your health, and how to prevent them.
What Is a Cat Scratch?
A cat scratch is a wound caused by the claws of a cat. The scratches are usually not deep, but they can bleed and become infected. In some cases, a cat scratch can also become infected.
Naturally, cats have sharp claws for hunting and defending themselves. However, when cats scratch humans or other animals, it is often out of excitement or fear. It is also not uncommon for a cat to scratch because they feel threatened or want to assert their dominance.
It’s important to note that when your pet scratches you, avoid hurting them in return, as this will only make the situation worse. If another animal is involved, try to remove them from the area and keep them calm until the situation has diffused.
What Are the Symptoms of a Cat Scratch?
The symptoms of a cat scratch can vary depending on how deep the wound is. In most cases, a cat scratch will cause redness, swelling, and pain at the wound site. If the scratch is deep enough, it may also bleed.
In some cases, a cat scratch can become infected. Signs of an infection include:
- Pus or drainage from the wound
- Redness and swelling that gets worse
- Increased pain
- Fever
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to take your cat to the vet as soon as possible. You want to choose a vet clinic within your area for easier access. Ask for referrals from your family or friends, or you may look online by searching “vet near me” to find one near your location.
What Is a Cat-Scratch Fever?
Cat-scratch fever is a bacterial infection caused by a cat scratch or bite. The bacteria, Bartonella henselae, is found in the saliva of cats and can be passed to humans through a scratch or bite.
Symptoms of cat-scratch fever include:
- Fever
- Swelling at the scratch site or bite
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes
If you think you have a cat-scratch fever, see a doctor as soon as possible. The infection is treated with antibiotics. Cat-scratch fever can lead to more severe complications like pneumonia or brain damage in rare cases.
How Are Cat Scratches Treated?
The treatment for a cat scratch will depend on the severity of the wound. In most cases, a cat scratch can be treated at home.
- If the scratch is bleeding, hold a clean cloth against the wound to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding has stopped, wash the wound with soap and water.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover it with a bandage.
- If the scratch is not bleeding, you can still wash it with soap and water. Apply an antibiotic ointment to the wound if it looks like it might become infected. Ensure to use a clean bandage to cover the wound and keep it protected.
- If the scratch is infected, your cat will need to see a vet. They may prescribe antibiotics for clearing the infection. Hospitalization may also be necessary for your pet for treatment in some cases.
How Can I Prevent Cat Scratches?
Below are some steps to take to prevent your cat from scratching you or other members of your family:
- Trim your cat’s nails regularly. This will help keep their claws blunt and less likely to cause injury.
- Use pet nail cap products that fit your cat’s nails and help protect against scratches.
- Give your cat plenty of toys and scratching posts, so they don’t feel the need to scratch.
In Conclusion
Owning a pet is not all about having them vaccinated (such as parvovirus vaccination), buying them toys, giving them nutritious food, etc. It is also about being cautious and responsible.
Being scratched by a cat is not a big deal in most cases, but there are some instances where it can turn into a more serious problem. If you think a cat has scratched you or your family member, clean the wound and watch for signs of infection. If you see any symptoms of an infection, visit a doctor as soon as possible. Similarly, if your cat is hurt, take them to the vet for treatment.
