How to Make Scratches by Cats Heal Fast

Even the most friendly and docile pets may sometimes lash out at the hand that feeds them if they are provoked, frightened or simply playing too aggressively. Cat scratches can be painful, but they are easily treated. If you receive a scratch from your cat for whatever reason, it is important to promptly attend to the wound. Cleaning the affected area and eliminating bacteria as soon as possible is the best way to ensure the scratched skin heals quickly.

Things You'll Need

  • Soap
  • Running water
  • Clean cloth
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Antiseptic ointment
  • Bandage or gauze
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the wound with soap under warm, running water for five minutes. The pressure of the running water will help clean out the scratch. Avoid scrubbing at the area as this may cause further damage.

    • 2

      Place pressure on the scratch with a clean cloth to stop any bleeding. Elevating the area above the heart will help stop the wound from bleeding.

    • 3

      Apply hydrogen peroxide to the wound. This will help eliminate bacteria and keep the scratch from becoming infected.

    • 4

      Use an antiseptic ointment on the scratch before covering the wound with a bandage or gauze. Change the bandage daily and reapply the ointment with each change. The ointment will help avoid scarring and will encourage the skin to heal quickly.

    • 5

      Watch the area for any signs of infection. If the scratch becomes swollen, blistered or there is redness around it, visit a doctor immediately. Some cats carry a bacteria called bartonella henselae beneath their claws, which can be transmitted to humans via a cat scratch. The bacteria may cause an infection that must be treated with antibiotics.