Mammalian animal bite

Low urgency
CommonModerately severe

Injury caused by the teeth of a mammal, such as dogs, cats, bats or other animals. These bites can cause a variety of health problems, including infection and injury to the affected tissues.

The cause of mammalian animal bites is due to the interaction between humans and mammals, either through direct contact or the presence of wild animals in urban areas.

Bites often present with localised pain, swelling, bleeding and the possibility of infection. In some cases, they may also cause fractures or severe tissue damage.

Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment of the patient and identification of the type of animal responsible for the bite.

Treatment involves cleaning and disinfection of the wound and administration of antibiotics to prevent infection. In more severe cases, reconstructive surgery may be required to repair the damage caused by the bite.

Bibliographic references
  1. Lyu C, Jewell MP, Piron J, et al. Burden of Bites by Dogs and Other Animals in Los Angeles County, California, 2009-2011. Public Health Rep 2016; 131:800.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Nonfatal dog bite-related injuries treated in hospital emergency departments--United States, 2001. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2003; 52:605.
  3. Ellis R, Ellis C. Dog and cat bites. Am Fam Physician 2014; 90:239.
  4. MacBean CE, Taylor DM, Ashby K. Animal and human bite injuries in Victoria, 1998-2004. Med J Aust 2007; 186:38.
  5. Hon KL, Fu CC, Chor CM, et al. Issues associated with dog bite injuries in children and adolescents assessed at the emergency department. Pediatr Emerg Care 2007; 23:445.
Author
Dra. Maria Eugenia Rodriguez
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Bite area is red with suppuration


    Itching, tingling, heat and/or pain at bite site


    Deep animal bite


    Bleeding


    Swollen limb

Self-care

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
Press to stop the bleeding.
Cover with a dry and clean compress.
Elevate affected area to reduce pain and swelling
If you have pain, take over-the-counter analgesics.