Animal bites
Bites from animals — dogs, cats, wild animals — often break the skin and carry a high risk of infection because of bacteria in the animal’s mouth. Most animal bites in the UK should be seen by a health professional even if they look small.
Looking after yourself
- Wash the wound thoroughly under cool running water for several minutes
- Use soap if you have it
- Cover with a clean dressing
- Do not close the wound with a plaster if it is deep — it needs to drain and be checked
When to get medical help
Use NHS 111 online, call 111, or contact your GP if:
- Any bite that breaks the skin, especially from a cat
- A bite on the hand, face, or a joint
- You have not had a tetanus booster in the last 5 years
- Redness, swelling, pus, warmth or increasing pain — signs of infection
Call 999 or go to A&E if bleeding is severe, the bite is on the head, neck or torso, or you have been bitten by a wild animal that could carry rabies (outside the UK).
Further information
This page provides general information only. It is not a diagnosis and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.