Should I go for rabies vaccination after a minor scratch by a cat?

Question

Hi doctor,

During my vacation I stayed in a hotel where they had 15 pet cats. I picked up a small cat to play, but she jumped from my hand and it felt like a scratch on my forearm. It was very minor, even not a single blood spot or skin removal present. She was completely normal in behavior. Now, I asked them after eight days. They said they are pet but not vaccinated and also say not harmful. They say none of the cat died but does not look very confident to me because they surely do not have any count of them. Should I go for rabies vaccination? Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have thoroughly gone through the photos attached (attachment removed to protect patient identity) by you and understand your concern. The cat or dog bites are classified into three groups based on the severity. A simple scratch with no break in the skin and no bleeding comes under group 1. For group 1 injuries or bites, there is no need for rabies vaccination. Revert with the answer to assist further. Thank you and take care. Regards.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Pictures after a week are not useful. But, if you are very confident that there was no blood after the scratch then no need to worry. And also there is no need for rabies vaccination. Thank you and take care. Regards.