animal bites

An animal bite is an injury that is the result of the flesh of a person being caught between the teeth of the upper and lower jaws of an animal. Animal bites do not include insect bites or stings.

 

The signs and symptoms of an animal bite can vary. The bite can look like a surface scratch with little or no break in the skin. An animal bite can bleed a little or a lot. The bite can tear or puncture the skin. There can also be crush injuries with some animal bites.

 

If the bite becomes infected, the following symptoms may occur:

 

The most common animal bite in the US is a dog bite. Cat bites are the second most common. Cat bites can be more serious because they produce puncture-type wounds.

 

Wild animals, including bats, are responsible for a number of bites each year. Any animal that bites a human should be confined and the proper authorities notified. The animal should be tested for rabies.

 

Most animal bites can be prevented by following these guidelines. Teach children not to approach any unfamiliar pets or wild animals.Avoid approaching an animal aggressively.Don't tease animals.Don't feed or play with wild animals, including squirrels and raccoons.Don't stick fingers into animal cages at pet stores, shows, or zoos.When an animal is eating or caring for its offspring, leave it alone.

A history of the animal bite from the individual or witnesses can provide a clue to the diagnosis. Often the bite can be diagnosed from the tooth marks on the person's skin.

There are three things to consider when treating animal bites: preventing infectionpreventing rabiesstopping bleeding