Cat bite infection?

Question

While at the gas station, I saw a cat that was hit by a car.  I wrapped it in a towel to take it to a vet just a couple of blocks away.  I must of hurt it, because it did a reactionary bite on my right, index finger.  The bite went all the way through, front to side.

After getting to the vet, I washed it off and applied Neosporin and liquid bandage.  But, several hours later, I can't bend my finger.  It's so sore and lumpy.  Do I need to do anything else to prevent infection?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Oooh, that can be bad news. Cat bites are notorious for causing infection.  Because their teeth are small & can penetrate so deeply, that places bacteria into the wound well beyond the point of washing it out.

The pain & swelling are probably normal at this point. Puncture wounds always hurt worse than surfaces injuries.  Don't bother with Neosporin-- cleaning it 2-3x a day and flushing the wound with peroxide is what you need to do. Do use Bandaids, but no ointments or liquid bandage, because it needs to air & stay dry. Watch closely for signs of infection and if that appears, contact your doctor.

Cat bite infection?

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