Encountering a wild cat can be an exciting or frightening experience, depending on the circumstances. However, one potential outcome of such an encounter is being scratched, especially if the cat feels threatened or frightened. If you find yourself in this situation and have been scratched on your thigh, with blood visible, it’s important to understand the potential consequences and take the necessary steps to ensure your health and safety.
Immediate Response
The first thing to do after being scratched by a wild cat is to clean the wound thoroughly. Wash the area with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, rinsing well. This helps to remove any dirt, debris, or saliva that may be present, reducing the risk of infection. If possible, apply an antiseptic ointment or spray to the wound to further reduce the risk of infection.
Risk of Infection
Wild cats can carry a variety of bacteria and viruses, some of which can be transmitted through scratches or bites. While the risk of contracting a serious illness from a wild cat scratch is relatively low, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks. Some common infections that can be transmitted through cat scratches include rabies, cat-scratch fever (bartonellosis), and tetanus.
Rabies
Rabies is a viral infection that affects the brain and spinal cord and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. While most domestic cats are vaccinated against rabies, wild cats are not, making them a potential source of exposure. If you have been scratched by a wild cat and are concerned about rabies, seek medical attention immediately. Depending on the circumstances, you may be advised to undergo rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which includes a series of vaccinations to prevent the onset of the disease.
Cat-Scratch Fever
Cat-scratch fever is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. It’s typically transmitted through cat scratches or bites, but can also be transmitted through cat saliva if it comes into contact with an open wound or mucous membranes. Symptoms of cat-scratch fever can include fever, headache, fatigue, and a swollen, painful lymph node near the site of the scratch or bite. If you develop these symptoms after being scratched by a wild cat, seek medical attention promptly.
Tetanus
Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and causes muscle spasms and stiffness. While tetanus is not directly transmitted by cats, a scratch or wound can provide an entry point for the bacteria that cause tetanus, particularly if the wound is contaminated with soil or dirt. If you have not received a tetanus booster in the past 10 years, you may be advised to get one after being scratched by a wild cat.
Seeking Medical Attention
Regardless of the severity of the scratch, it’s always a good idea to seek medical attention after being scratched by a wild cat. A healthcare provider can assess the wound, determine the risk of infection, and recommend the appropriate treatment. In some cases, antibiotics or other medications may be prescribed to prevent or treat infection.
Preventing Future Encounters
To reduce the risk of future encounters with wild cats, take precautions such as avoiding areas where wild cats are known to congregate, not feeding or petting wild cats, and keeping your distance if you encounter one. If you have pets, make sure they are vaccinated and kept up-to-date on their flea and tick preventatives to reduce the risk of attracting wild cats to your property.
