Ted Nugent sang about it — but is it for real? Some people may try to tell you cat scratch disease is a myth, but your vet or family doctor may say differently. A scratch from a cat is usually more of a problem for a human than for another cat.
Cat scratches on humans
A bite or scratch from a cat can turn into a serious infection pretty quickly — virtually overnight. If you are scratched or especially bitten, you need to be careful with the wound. Wash it carefully, and keep an eye on the site. You may end up needing a visit to the doctor for antibiotics or a tetanus booster shot.
Cat scratches on other cats
A scratch from one cat to another isn’t as dangerous. If your cat ends up with a fresh scratch from play or a trip outside, about all you need to do is a simple cleanup with soap and water. Keep your eye out for other abrasions and wounds — where there’s one scratch, there may be more than one.
Also check the depth on any scratches you find. If a scratch doesn’t stop bleeding quickly, you may need to do a little first aid. Apply pressure with a cotton ball or sterile gauze pad. You may need to trim away the fur around the wound; wash the scratch site with soap and water. You shouldn’t need to bandage the wound — fresh air and licking are part of the natural healing process.
Direct pressure should stop the bleeding within a few minutes; if it doesn’t, you will need a vet’s assistance. If the wound is spurting blood, head for the vet immediately. Apply pressure with a gauze pad or other clean cloth to try and contain the bleeding.
Cat bites on other cats
A bite should be seen by your vet as soon as possible. Bites are usually deeper than scratches, and stand a good chance of becoming infected. A bite that closes up with germs or debris inside can turn into a painful abscess.