Animal Bites, First Aid 

Bites can be caused by wild animals and domestic animals (including humans), and they can range from mild to serious. It is important to assess both the severity of the bite as well as the risk for infection to determine the appropriate first aid and care.

Note: If the bite is from a wild animal or from a domestic animal whose immunization status is unknown, rabies is a concern. Seek prompt medical attention from a physician, even if the bite is mild and the skin barely broken. Immediate vaccination can prevent rabies from developing. While rabies in humans is rare, it is fatal.

First Aid Guide
Minor bite wounds are wounds where the skin is only slightly broken or when the bite is from a human (eg, child) or a domestic animal that is vaccinated against rabies.

First aid for minor bite wounds:

1. Thoroughly wash the wound with soapy water.
2. Apply an antibiotic cream (such as bacitracin) to the affected area.
3. Cover the wound with a clean bandage.
4. Watch for signs of infection (ie, the affected area is very red or warm to the touch, painful, oozing pus, or blood-filled).
5. If the bite is on the hand or finger, call your doctor, as antibiotics are often given for bites in this area.

Severe bite wounds are wounds that are torn, deep (including deep punctures), or bleeding badly.

First aid for severe bite wounds:

1. Attempt to stop the bleeding by applying pressure to the affected area with a clean, dry cloth.
2. Seek medical assistance.

Note: If the bite is from a wild animal or from a domestic animal whose immunization status is unknown, rabies is a concern. Seek prompt medical attention from a physician, even if the bite is mild and the skin is barely broken. Immediate vaccination can prevent rabies from developing.

Rabies is more common in raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes than in domestic cats and dogs; it can occur but is rare in wild or domestic rodents, such as rabbits, squirrels, and mice.

If you have been bitten by an animal and its status is unknown, it is best to notify police or animal control. DO NOT attempt to capture a potentially rabid animal yourself. Be ready to tell them what the animal looks like and where it is likely located so they can capture it and determine what steps to take next.