Unfortunately, you can’t always keep an eye on your children and your pets. Sometimes, bites happen, but that doesn’t make them any less concerning.

If your child was bitten by your family dog, cat or other household pet, there are some things you can do to care for the bite before heading to our AFC center for treatment. Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team further elaborates below.

What Should I Do First After an Animal Bite?

If the animal bite that your child has suffered has broken the skin, it’s best to quickly take your child to get medical attention. Most medical experts recommend seeking medical attention within 24 hours after a bite has occurred since bite wounds always have a chance of becoming infected.

Before heading to see a doctor, though, perform these first-aid steps on your child.

First Aid for Animal Bites

• Wash the bite area with soap and water. If the bite is bleeding, put pressure on it using sterile gauze or a clean cloth.
• If the bleeding has stopped, put antibiotic ointment on the area.
• Cover the area with a bandage or sterile gauze.
• If your child has pain, give acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

How Likely Is Infection From an Animal Bite?

It’s definitely possible, but it’s not super common among dog bites, which are the most common type of bite.

Cat bites, on the other hand, have a higher chance of becoming infected due to their longer and sharper teeth. Once a bite has occurred, it’s important to be on the lookout for signs or symptoms of infection. We’ve listed some of those common signs below.

Common Bite Infection Signs

• Localized redness around your wound
• Warmth around the bite area
• Red streaks leading away from the bite
• A fever
• Pus
• Swelling
• Pain

If your child has been bitten by an animal, don’t wait to get the care he or she needs! Visit our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team today.