Domestic pets cause most animal bites. Dogs are more likely to bite than cats. However, cat bites are more likely to cause infection. Bites from wild animals carry the risk of rabies. Rabies is common in raccoons, skunks, bats and foxes. Rabbits and squirrels rarely harbor rabies, but sometimes squirrels do carry rabies. If you or a friend are bitten by an animal, follow these guidelines:

If the bite only breaks the skin, treat it as a minor wound. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Apply an antibiotic cream to prevent infection, and cover it with a clean bandage.

If the bite creates a deep puncture of the skin or is badly torn and bleeding, apply pressure to stop the bleeding and see your health care provider.

If you notice signs of infection, such as swelling, redness, increased pain or oozing, see your health care provider immediately.

If you suspect the bite was caused by an animal with rabies (one that behaves oddly or is foaming at the mouth, or one that bites even though unprovoked), see your health care provider immediately.

If you were bitten by a cat, and you develop a fever of 100.2� F (38� C) or over, or have swollen lymph nodes in the area near the bite, or the area of the bite is red and has pus, see your health care provider, they may want to start you on an antibiotic. There is a disease called Cat-Scratch Disease, which is caused by a bacteria and, even though the name includes the word "scratch", it can also occur from a cat bite. It can be treated and cured.

You should have a tetanus shot every 10 years. If the wound is deep or dirty, your health care provider may recommend a booster if your last one was more than 5 years ago. You should have a booster within 48 hours after the injury!

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