A deep cat scratch that breaks the skin and causes bleeding can be alarming, especially if the wound is located over a visible blood vessel. While the sight of blood may suggest a serious vascular injury, a cat’s claw is highly unlikely to penetrate deeply enough to damage a major artery. The vessels near the skin’s surface are primarily superficial veins, which are low-pressure structures. Although such a scratch is rarely life-threatening, any injury that breaks the skin carries a significant risk of bacterial infection, requiring prompt attention.
Immediate Response and Wound Care
The first step after a cat scratch breaks the skin is to control bleeding and immediately begin cleaning the wound. If the wound is actively bleeding, apply gentle, continuous pressure using a clean cloth or sterile bandage until the flow slows down. Blood from a damaged surface vein appears dark red and flows slowly and steadily. This is distinctly different from the bright red, spurting flow associated with a rare arterial injury.
Once bleeding is managed, the wound must be thoroughly cleaned to remove bacteria introduced by the claw. Vigorously wash the injured area with mild soap and running water for a minimum of five minutes. This flushing action helps dislodge foreign material and pathogens from the puncture site. Avoid scrubbing the area, as this can bruise the tissue or push bacteria deeper into the wound.
After washing and gently patting the area dry with a sterile cloth, apply an over-the-counter antiseptic or antibiotic ointment to the scratch. This step helps to eliminate any remaining surface bacteria and provides a protective barrier. Finally, cover the wound with a sterile bandage to keep it clean and protected from further contamination while it begins to heal.
The Primary Danger: Infection Risks
The primary danger from a cat scratch is the risk of bacterial infection, not the trauma itself. Cat claws and saliva harbor pathogens that are injected deep into the tissue when the skin is broken. This creates a puncture wound that can heal quickly on the surface, potentially trapping bacteria inside and allowing infection to thrive.
A specific concern is the bacterium Bartonella henselae, which causes Cat Scratch Disease (CSD). Cats, especially kittens, become infected from flea feces, which can then be present on their claws. Within days, a small bump or blister may develop at the scratch site. The main characteristic symptom is enlarged and tender lymph nodes near the injury, often appearing one to three weeks later. CSD can also cause systemic symptoms like low-grade fever, headache, and fatigue.
Beyond CSD, a cat scratch can introduce common bacterial species like Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, leading to a localized skin infection. Signs of a general infection typically appear within 12 to 24 hours and include increasing redness, swelling, warmth, and pain around the wound. The presence of pus, or red streaks extending outward from the injury, indicates the infection is spreading and requires immediate attention. The risk of carrying these bacteria is particularly high in outdoor or stray cats, though even indoor cats can harbor them.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
While most superficial cat scratches can be managed with proper at-home care, professional medical attention is required in certain circumstances. Seek care immediately if bleeding cannot be stopped after 10 to 15 minutes of continuous pressure, or if the wound is deep, gaping, or located over a joint. Scratches on the hands or face are also considered high-risk due to the density of underlying structures and potential for severe infection. A doctor’s visit is necessary if you observe signs of a spreading or systemic infection, such as fever, chills, an increasingly painful or swollen wound, or red lines tracking away from the scratch.
For deep wounds, a healthcare provider will assess the need for prescription antibiotics to prevent severe infection. They will also determine if your tetanus vaccination status is current. A booster is often recommended if your last one was more than five to ten years ago.
Immunocompromised individuals, including those with conditions like diabetes or HIV, should seek medical evaluation promptly. Their bodies may struggle to fight off the bacteria introduced by the cat’s claw, increasing the risk of serious complications, such as the spread of infection to internal organs. A timely medical assessment ensures proper treatment and helps prevent complications.