How to Soak a Cat-Bitten Hand in Epsom Salt

Cat bites frequently become infected, since cats' pointy teeth create puncture wounds that may inject bacteria into muscle tissues. Areas bitten by cats will swell and leak fluid. Epsom salt has natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties, and it will absorb moisture from a bite to help it dry out. A solution of Epsom salt has a mild antiseptic effect but is not concentrated enough to penetrate a cat bite. An Epsom salt paste would be more beneficial.

Things You'll Need

  • 1 tbsp. Epsom salt
  • Water
  • Kettle
  • Tablespoon
  • Bowl
  • Scissors
  • Square of non-absorbent dressing
  • Adhesive tape suitable for applying to skin
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the bite with soap and water and apply pressure to it with a clean towel to stop any bleeding.

    • 2

      Bring a small bit of water to boil in a pot or kettle then allow it to sit for about 10 minutes.

    • 3

      Pour 1 tbsp. of Epsom salt into a bowl. Add a few drops of the boiled water and mix to make a thick paste, adding extra water if necessary.

    • 4

      Cut the non-absorbent dressing into squares big enough to cover the wound with an additional half-inch overlap on each side.

    • 5

      Tear off four 3-inch strips of adhesive tape.

    • 6

      Use a spoon to apply the paste in a thick layer over the bite. Cover the paste with the dressing and secure it with the tape strips. Leave the dressing on for at least eight hours.

    • 7

      Remove the dressing and wash the bitten area with clean water.