When playing with cats, it is not impossible for your little one to get scratched. If this happens, Mother, don't panic just yet. Take the right handling steps so that your little one avoids the dangers that may occur due to cat scratches.
Although it looks simple, if not handled properly, cat scratch can cause bacterial infection Bartonella Henselae. Therefore, you need to know how to treat cat scratch wounds properly.
How to Treat Wounds from Cat Scratches
If your little one is scratched by a cat, you need to first identify the type of wound. The following are the types of wounds caused by cat scratches and their treatment:
1. A cat scratch wound that doesn't bleed
If your little one is scratched by a cat but doesn't bleed, after washing your hands, you can take the following handling steps:
- Leave the cat scratched wound under the tap for about 5 minutes, then clean the skin affected by the cat's scratch with soap. Do not rub cat scratch marks, because it can cause bruising on your little one's skin.
- If you see dirt or cat hair stuck to the skin affected by a cat scratch, clean it immediately.
- After cleaning, you can also apply antibiotic ointment on the skin affected by cat scratches. But before giving antibiotic ointment to your little one, you are advised to consult a doctor first.
2. Cat scratch wound that bleeds
If the cat scratch wound is accompanied by bleeding, you need to treat it with the following steps:
- Stop the bleeding by pressing on the scratch with a clean bandage or cloth for a few minutes. But remember, you have to wash your hands first.
- After the bleeding has completely stopped, immediately clean the cat's scratch marks using clean water. Make sure the water you use is really clean. Bun. Cleaning scratch scars using less clean water can increase the risk of infection in the wound.
- Dry the cat's scratch marks using a clean towel. If you're prone to dirt, your cat's scratch marks will need to be temporarily covered with a bandage to keep them clean.
If a cat scratch wound causes your little one to be in pain, you can give pain relievers, such as paracetamol.
So, don't panic when your little one gets scratched by a cat, Mom. Follow the steps above to deal with it. After that, take your little one to the doctor so that he can be examined and given further treatment.
To prevent your little one from being scratched by a cat, always supervise when he plays with the cat. Also remind your little one not to do things that can annoy the cat.
