First Aid & Emergencies

Animal Bites Treatment

1. Stop Bleeding

• Apply direct pressure until bleeding stops.

2. Clean and Protect

For a wound or superficial scratch from an animal bite:

• Gently clean with soap and warm water. Rinse for several minutes after cleaning.

• Apply antibiotic cream to reduce risk of infection, and cover with a sterile bandage.

3. Get Help

• Get medical help immediately for any animal bite that is more than a superficial scratch or if the animal was a wild animal or stray, regardless of the severity of the injury.

• If the animal's owner is available, find out if the animal's rabies shots are up-to-date. Give this information to your health care provider.

• If the animal was a stray or wild animal, call the local health department or animal control immediately.

4. Follow Up

• The health care provider will make sure the wound is thoroughly clean and may prescribe antibiotics.

• If there is any risk of rabies infection, the health care provider will recommend anti-rabies treatment.

• The person may require stitches, depending on the location and severity of the animal bite.

• The person may also require a tetanus shot or booster.

• The health care provider may recommend ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain.