Two million Americans are bitten by animals every year. But with prompt treatment, most bites pose no real threat. Dogs account for about 90 percent of the bites. Cats are guilty of most of the remaining 10 percent. Although dog bites are more common, cat bites can be more dangerous.
Puncture wounds can be serious because there's no natural drainage of the wound.
Also, cats have a particular type of bacteria in their mouths that is very virulent and can cause infection rapidly. If you've been bitten by a dog or a cat, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water, says Dr. Blum. He recommends you flush the wound of potentially dangerous bacteria by rinsing well with running water for three to five minutes. Apply an antibiotic ointment and cover with a sterile dressing. If the wound is bleeding heavily, apply direct pressure with a clean, sterile cloth until the bleeding stops.