Cat Scratch Minor Cut: Need a Shot?

For cat owners, being scratched by their feline companions is often a matter of routine. However, for those new to the world of "star beast" cat ownership, the first time they're scratched can be a cause for alarm, filled with worries about contracting rabies. For seasoned cat parents, it's all in a day's work, and they've come to accept scratches as a part of the territory. Now, let's delve into what new cat owners should do when they're scratched, and whether or not they need to get vaccinated.

One: PostScratch Wound Care

1. Immediate Treatment for Minor Scratches from Domestic Cats

This is the first scenario: you've been scratched by your cat, but it's just a minor scratch without any bleeding. The immediate action for the cat owner should be to wash the wound thoroughly and disinfect it. Begin by rinsing the scratch with soap and water for about 20 minutes, followed by applying medical iodine and alcohol.

2. Immediate Treatment for Minor Scratches with Bleeding from Domestic Cats

When a scratch results in minor bleeding, after cleaning the wound, gently squeeze out some of the blood to help remove any bacteria that may have entered the wound. Then, apply iodine and medical alcohol to the scratch repeatedly, disinfecting the area two or three times until the bleeding stops naturally. It's advisable not to bandage the wound, allowing it to air out to heal more quickly.

Two: PostScratch Vaccination

After cleaning and disinfecting the wound, many cat owners still feel uneasy. This is understandable. If your cat has received the full vaccination series and has adequate antibodies, you may not necessarily need a rabies vaccine. However, a tetanus shot is recommended, and if you're still concerned, you can opt for a rabies vaccine based on your personal preference. But if your cat hasn't been vaccinated or the vaccination is incomplete, it's advisable to get vaccinated after being scratched, especially if the wound is bleeding.

Even if a scratch is minor and only causes a superficial break without bleeding, it's still important to disinfect the area. The absence of blood doesn't mean the skin hasn't been damaged, and there's still a risk of bacterial infection.

Tip: For more information on cat vaccinations, check out our article "How Painful is Cat Vaccination?"