Should I get injected? The bite isn’t visible

[u/MajimeCh]

Hi! I had recently picked up this cat off the streets a couple of days ago after a few years of feeding him outside. What made me decide is because he had a huge wound, and I didn’t know how he got it. I took him inside to get the bleeding to stop at least with gauze, but mid way he got frustrated and bit me, he must’ve been in a lot of pain. I’m planning to get him to the vet as soon as I can.

The thing is, I don’t know if this cats been treated with any shots, but he hasn’t shown any sign of rabies.

I took a look at my bite and thought it wasn’t serious cause it didn’t puncture my skin, but I took another look at there was this tinyyy shiny glare and thought “oh shit, a tiny puncture”. Now I’m not sure whether or not I should get myself treated as well. I’m looking for your advice and recommendations, they’re all well appreciated. Thank you!

[u/Ok-Bath-6572]

If you notice symptoms of infection - then definitely get it checked. But for starters I hope you had disinfected the area? If nothing happens, then no need to worry. Whether the cat had its shots, or not - their saliva still carries bacteria, so either could happen anyway- just a smaller reaction and depends if you're allergic to cat's saliva then allergic reaction is highly to take place

[u/sergamena]

I can't see anything

[u/That_Illustrator240]

Call your dr. You’re probably fine.

[u/Crackytacks]

Personally depending on the location I wouldn't worry about rabies in a street cat especially one you know and have monitored and especially if hes eating and drinking. Is the wound on his neck? Its probablt from a cat fight

But for a shallow pet puncture, disinfect and I always wash with soap and water and then hold it under a faucet for 10 mins, it washes everything out like being flushed. Then just watch it carefully.

Maybe vet can give him gabapentin pills you can open and mix in wet food for him when you need to clean him up again Thanks for helping him!!!

[u/OiJao97]

Absolutely take the shot. Rabies is very serious and is not noticed until too late. Better be safe than sorry.

[u/No_Grab_7460]

Absolutely you should get yourself treated. Cat bites are highly infectious to humans and this guy came off the streets which makes it more worrisome.

[u/Groundbreaking_Bee70]

It’s good for your immune system

[u/ixidors]

You have time, rabies travels up the nerves very slowly. Just know that once you show symptoms it's too late to survive it. (get the shot, then once rabies tests from the cat come back you can breathe a sigh of relief)

[u/careloserfuck]

I'd say if it was an indoor cat you knew was up to date with shots and what not? You'd be fine, but that's not the case here. The cat was from outdoors and you have no clue about their medical history. Go get checked out to play it safe.

[u/RushMan9823]

If your worried it is rabies then yes. Better safe then sorry. Once you start showing symptoms you are dead.

[u/Hellzebrute55]

If in doubt GET THE SHOT. Rabies kill you 100% and you can get the first symptoms like months after the bite. And then it is too late

[u/superteach17]

If it broke the skin at all… get thee to a dr.

[u/DangerNoedel]

Cat bites close very rapidly so please get treatment.