Animal Bite Wounds (Specifics)

Bite wounds from other animals (dogs, cats, wildlife) often look minor on the surface but can cause significant damage underneath due to crushing forces and bacteria introduced deep into tissues.

Potential Complications:

• High risk of infection (abscess formation)
• Damage to underlying muscles, tendons, nerves, or organs
• Crushing injuries
• Introduction of foreign material (hair, teeth fragments)
• Emotional trauma
• Risk of diseases (rarely rabies in UK domestic pets, but possible from bats or imported animals)

What You Might See:

• Puncture wounds (may be small, hard to find under fur)
• Lacerations (tears in the skin)
• Bruising and swelling
• Bleeding
• Pain, lameness, reluctance to be touched
• Pet may appear shocked

First Aid Actions:

1. Ensure Safety: Separate animals. Approach injured pet cautiously (may bite from pain/fear). Muzzle if necessary and safe.
2. Control Bleeding: Apply direct, firm pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to actively bleeding areas.
3. Assess Wound (Gently): Look for punctures, tears, swelling. Trim fur around edges carefully only if safe and pet allows to get a better look (use blunt scissors).
4. Gentle Cleaning (Superficial): If wound is minor and pet tolerates, gently flush surface with lukewarm water or sterile saline, or diluted antiseptic (Hibiscrub). Do NOT scrub or probe deep wounds.
5. Cover Loosely: Cover with a clean, dry, non-stick dressing if possible to prevent contamination during transport. Do not bandage tightly unless needed for bleeding control.
6. Seek Veterinary Care Promptly: All bite wounds should be examined by a vet. They need professional cleaning, assessment for deeper damage, likely antibiotics, and possibly pain relief or surgical repair.