Animal bites: Do you need a tetanus shot?

By Mayo Clinic Staff

If you're bitten by an immunized pet and the wound barely breaks the skin, you can treat the wound yourself. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Apply an antibiotic cream to prevent infection and cover the wound with a clean bandage. If the wound is deep or dirty, ask your doctor about getting a tetanus shot or booster. It's best to get the shot as soon as possible after the injury.

Nov. 17, 2020

See also

  1. Animal bites: First aid
  2. Cat Bites and Wound Care
  3. Mayo Clinic Minute: What you should know about bats and rabies
  4. Rabies