If you've been scratched by a dog or cat, here are some tips to help you prevent infection and reduce your risk.
Wash the wound. First, immediately wash the wound with soap and water, making sure to remove dirt and bacteria thoroughly. It can be washed with mild soapy water or an antibacterial solution. After washing, gently dry the wound with a clean towel.
Check the depth of the wound and the bleeding.
Observe the depth of the wound and the bleeding, and seek medical help immediately if the bleeding is heavy or the wound is deep. If the wound is small and not deep, it can be continued at home.
Use of antimicrobial drugs.
After the wound is washed, antibacterial medications, such as iodophor or alcohol, can be applied to help prevent infection. But make sure you don't use medications that are too strong to avoid harming the **.
Bandage the wound. Use a clean bandage or gauze to cover the wound and avoid using adhesive tape to stick directly to the wound. When bandaging, make sure that the tightness is moderate, not too tight, so as not to affect blood circulation.
Consider getting vaccinated.
If you are scratched by a dog or cat and have **broken or bleeding, rabies vaccination should be considered to prevent viral infection. Rabies is a deadly viral infection, so it is very important to get vaccinated in a timely manner.
Observe animal behavior.
If the cat or dog that scratches you is not vaccinated or cannot be sure of its health, their behavior should be closely observed. If the animal exhibits symptoms of rabies, such as hydrophobia, photophobia, convulsions, etc., you should seek medical attention immediately and inform your doctor of your condition.
In conclusion, if you are scratched by a dog or cat, you should take immediate steps to clean the wound, use antimicrobials, dress the wound and consider vaccination. At the same time, closely observe the behavior of the animals to ensure their own safety. If you have any concerns or symptoms worsen, seek medical attention.