Cat bite: what should I do?
The short answer
Wash the cat bite with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
Skin not broken: no injection needed. Skin broken: doctor today for anti-rabies injection.
Billi ne kat liya to kya kare?
Pehle sabun se 15 minute dhoyein; skin kati ho to aaj hi doctor ko dikhayein.
Cat bite: check the skin first
- Skin not broken, only a red mark: no injection needed
- Skin broken, even a tiny puncture: see a doctor today
- Cat bites are deep punctures that infect easily
- Not sure the skin broke? Treat it as broken
If your own pet cat bit you
- Rabies is rare in a cat with yearly shots
- Skin broken? Still see a doctor the same day
- Take the cat's vaccine certificate; doctor usually starts the injection
- Cat well on day 10? Doctor may shorten the course
If a stray or feral cat bit you
- Street cats that roam and fight: real rabies risk
- Stray cat seen daily? Start injections, watch it 10 days
- Feral cat you can't find again: full injection course
Cat bite: never do this
- No chilli, oil, turmeric, lime or salt on the bite
- Skin broken? Don't wait for the cat to fall ill
- Don't stop rabies injections when the bite heals
When help can’t wait
See a vet today if
- Your cat suddenly hides or turns more vicious
- Cat strikes at the air, or back legs paralysed
- Your cat's booster dates are unclear on its card
- Cat ill, missing or showing these signs? Tell your doctor
Go to a clinic now
Deep or bleeding cat bite: hospital today. Cat acting strangely: keep people away, call a vet before moving it.
Not sure? Ask a vet.
Questions here are for non-urgent pet care.Prefer a video consultation?
This page is for general guidance and does not replace an examination by a vet.