Thankyou for the responses. As it happens, I did not get a tetanus jab or any antibiotics. I decided to 'wait and see' because the bites were becoming less painful and less red each day, so I knew the risk of infection had passed. Also, I live in Spain and it is sometimes difficult with the communication. I am only slightly concerned about tetanus now so will just monitor the situation. I'm sure the way I dealt with the bite saved me from infection. There are many more semi feral cats around my home, so I don't expect this will be the last bite I ever receive.
But thanks again for all your advice.
I would definitely go to the ER. It's better to be safe than sorry. The docs won't get mad at you for wanting to make sure everything is ok. I've been bitten by plenty of animals, cats, bunnies, hamsters and I have never had the reaction to the bit that you are describing. Stay well!
Hi,
Thanks for the advice. It has probably been 20+ years since my last tetanus jab, so think I might go for one.
The bites are slightly less painful today, but still red around each puncture wound. I will keep my eye on them and get them looked at tomorrow at the hospital. I won't bother with the doc because I am due at the hospital tomorrow.
I don't appear to have any signs of infection - yet, no fever or puss coming from the wounds so I think I might live. I was bitten on sat approx 6pm so I know there's still time for problems to develop.
thanks again for the advice
Lisa
The redness and warmth indicate an infection...
Have you had a tetnus vacinne within the past 10yrs?
I'm not a doctor, but I will tell you if the redness should get any worse or spread get to an ER immediately....this happened to me recently and the doctor there said it was a good thing I came in when I did.
That said I have also had MANY smaller bites from my OWN cats over the years, they do get red and sore....but IMO only mildly AND I know my own cats have had all their vaccinations, esp. rabies. These bites would clear within a day or two.
I can't tell you what to do. If you decide against going to an ER than please watch the bite carefully until tomorrow. Like I said if the redness should begin to spread don't hesitate..
♥Opus