HomeAnswersPediatricscat scratch diseaseIs it necessary to give vaccination to my baby for a cat scratch?

A cat has scratched my child's toe. Should I get her a vaccination?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At October 2, 2017
Reviewed AtNovember 21, 2018

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My baby is 22 months old. Yesterday, a cat scratched his toe. But my child does not have a wound or blood there. Do I have to give vaccination to my baby?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

A cat has scratched your child, and it has not caused any barrier disruption or wound or bleeding. But still, it is advisable to clean the area with running water and soap. Apply some antiseptic in the area. Rabies is generally transmitted by animal saliva when it comes in contact with disrupted skin barrier and wound formed by the bite. In your case, you are safe from rabies, and rabies vaccine is not required.

The scratch caused by a cat generally causes cat scratch disease. It causes scratching of the skin barrier and makes a wound. This causes infection with some bacteria like streptococci. You should wash the area properly and apply antiseptic. If there is a wound, you must give antibiotics. A tetanus vaccine is required when your child is not adequately immunized till date.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Amit Kumar Modi
Dr. Amit Kumar Modi

Pediatrics

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Pediatrics

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy