Animal bite
What it is
An animal bite occurs when an animal bites a person and perforates the skin. There is a high risk of infection because animal saliva contains many viruses and bacteria.
What you can do at home
What to do
- Wash hands before and after touching the wound.
- Remove any jewelry near the wound (for example, remove rings after a bite to the hand).
- As soon as possible, wash the wound with water and unscented soap for 10 minutes. Wear gloves unless the bite is on the hands.
- Apply an antiseptic to the wound (iodine or 70% alcohol). Do not use peroxide or cotton balls.
- Leave the wound uncovered, or apply a dressing if drainage is present.
- If the wound is bleeding, apply a dressing and maintain pressure for 15 minutes.
- If the injured body part is swollen, keep it elevated.
- To reduce pain, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). When in doubt, ask a pharmacist for advice.
Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.
What to avoid
- Do not apply creams or ointments to the wound.
When to seek medical attention
The bite was caused by a non-venomous snake or a monkey.
The person who was bitten has any of the following signs:
- the wound is not healing;
- the skin around the wound becomes red, swollen, warm, or develops pus (yellow-green fluid).
Seek medical attention within 6 hours if the wound is large and may require stitches.
Ensure the bitten person's tetanus vaccination is up to date.
Seek medical attention within 24 hours if the bite was caused by an animal that may carry rabies (e.g., a bat or raccoon).
Call 811, option 1, if rabies exposure is suspected, for advice and to determine whether rabies vaccination is needed.
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment on Clic Santé if your child needs a vaccination.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
The injured area becomes numb, difficult to move, or appears deformed.
The pain is severe and does not improve with medication and wound care.
New symptoms develop rapidly, including fever, chills, fatigue, weakness, or a rapid heartbeat.
Signs of infection around the wound are worsening: pus (yellow-green fluid), pain, redness, or swelling.
The bitten person suddenly develops severe fatigue, dizziness, unusual behaviour, or seizures (uncontrolled shaking of the body).
The bite was caused by a venomous snake.
Heavy bleeding continues despite 15 minutes of direct pressure.