Ok freaked a bit, tetanus shot,topical antibiotic..

[Suezer]

These are some guidelines I went by, based on the fact that my tetanus booster was 15 years over due, I am at least glad I did that step.

-Clean the wound immediately with soap and water, rubbing alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide

-Put pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding.

-Hold the wound above your heart if the bite is on your hand or arm.

-Place a clean bandage over the wound.

-Assess the wound for signs of infection: unusual redness or swelling, increasing warmth in the area, red streaking, or fever. See a doctor if signs of infection develop.

- Get a tetanus shot if your primary series is incomplete or if it has been more than five years since your last shot.

-Determine the rabies vaccine status of the cat. The cat should be observed for 15 days to see if it develops signs of rabies if its vaccine status is uncertain.

[beth22]

With animal bites doctors always give a tetanus shot if it is more than 5 yrs. - not sure why, but better safe than sorry. Now you don't have to worry if it happens again.

[Bobbie]

Thx., Suezer, for the tips: things we all need to know to prevent infection, as we don't want to take antibiotics.

I am going to update my tetanus shot. Anyone who works in the yard a lot (I do) & might be scratched by a rusty nail or other object should keep up tetanus shots. I, too, have led this "slide" to make way for other problems. Always something!!!!

[cindym]

sks001- I remember getting tetanus as a child and boy did it make my arm swell up, get red and hurt! I have had several since that time but definitely not every 10 years as advised. With all my luck these days I might be smart to check into it. GEEZ