A rat bite can occur if it is scared or handled. It is best to leave a rat alone if one is nearby. If bitten by a rat, an issue of concern is the risk for an infection such as rat-bite fever.
How to deal with a rat bite
If an individual sustained a rat bite, there are measures that must be carried out such as:
- If bleeding is present, control the flow of blood by applying direct pressure and cleanse the wound using warm water and soap. Make sure that the inside of the wound is cleaned and thoroughly rinse after.
- The wound must be covered with a dry, clean dressing. A topical antibiotic can be applied before the wound is covered. Remember that a rat bite often leads to infection. The usual signs of infection include warmth, redness, swelling and drainage of pus.
If bleeding is present, control the flow of blood by applying direct pressure and cleanse the wound using warm water and soap. - If worried about a rat bite, a doctor must be consulted. In some cases, a tetanus immunization is required or stitches.
- Any wounds on the hands or face must be assessed by the doctor due to the potential for scarring or function loss.
Infection is an issue of concern with any animal bite including a rat bite. It is vital to keep the site as clean as possible as it recuperates.
Disclaimer / More Information
The information posted on this page on a rat bite is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn how to properly manage the bite, register for first aid training at one of our training centers located throughout Canada. The training centers are in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Kelowna, Saskatoon, Victoria, Surrey, Mississauga, Winnipeg, Red Deer, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.