Pet bites and scratches

Description
Animals may bite and scratch when defending property, territory or food. They may be feeling pain, fear or rage, or they may just be playing. The mouths and claws of animals contain bacteria that can cause bites and scratches to become infected. The infection is not spread from person to person. Rabies in dogs is not present in Australia and is therefore not a concern. It is possible to get tetanus from an animal bite.


Incubation Period
Some animal bites and scratches may become visibly infected within a day. In other cases, it may take up to 10 days for an infection to become obvious.


Infectious Period

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Controlling the Spread of Infection

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Treatment
Animal bites and scratches, particularly puncture wounds, should not be dismissed lightly. They should be cleaned immediately and thoroughly with soap or antiseptic. More extensive bites and scratches, particularly deep puncture wounds, should be examined by a doctor in case further treatment is required. Tetanus immunisation should be kept up to date. Children should receive a course of triple antigen (which includes tetanus) at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 18 months and 4-5 years before starting school. A tetanus booster is then needed at 15-19 years of age (ADT) and then every 10 years.


Comments

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Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is intended as a guide only. Wollongong Medical Centre is not liable for any problems that may arise from incorrectly or otherwise applying information found in this website.


Further General Information

The following web site has information on infectious diseases: www.health.nsw.gov.au/infect/ or contact the Division of Population and Planning on 4255-2200.

For information on a large range of medical conditions and problems visit www.mayoclinic.com