CAT BITES

These have about a 50% chance of becoming infected because they tend to be deep puncture wounds (although they may look small).
Virtually all cat bites should be treated with an antibiotic by mouth, especially bites on the hands, feet, or face. For just a small nip or scrape, antibiotics are usually not necessary. The antibiotic works best if started within 8 hours.
Cat (and dog) bites sometimes cause one particular bacterial infection called Pasteurella that causes rapid onset (during the first 24 to 28 hours) of redness, swelling, and severe pain that seem out of proportion to the initial injury. This may also cause fever in the child. Call your doctor is these signs occur.