If youve ever been scratched by a cat, you know that their claws can do some serious damage. No matter which option you choose, its important to be patient. One popular option is to mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a paste. Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the scar, or you can add a few drops to your favorite lotion or cream. Another option is to use a cream or ointment that is specifically designed to reduce the appearance of scars. 4. Note to self. Learn about 6 other causes, like dermatographia. Dr. Natalie Hodge answered. Plasters - she won't allow them and also would remove it. And last but not least, if your cats coat is looking a little lackluster, then we recommend using a good quality pet shampoo. lets see how to get rid of cat scratch scars. An infected cat may present sudden behavioral changes, including unusual aggression. Finally, if the scar is particularly deep or unsightly, you may want to consider speaking with a dermatologist about possible treatment options. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates. Now you know how long it takes for a cat scratch scar to fade. Normal wounds should yield flat scars, which are similar in color to your skin tone and flatten over time. A deep scratch can lead to an infection, so its best to err on the side of caution and get it checked out. Finally, it depends on your individual healing process. Get medical care for animal bites and scratches right away if: The wound is on the face, neck, hand, foot, or near a joint. Its important to call a doctor if youre presenting with any symptoms of an infection so you may be treated properly. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. $40 at Amazon. do you really think he would scratch that deep???? A scratch on the face is more likely to scar than a scratch on the arm, for example. And, in most cases, they eventually heal, leaving behind a scar. However, you need to be careful even with one or two, as they can cause infection or fever. While rare, such possibilities include: Rabies is a serious viral infection that develops as a result of being bitten by an infected animal. Cats that have it tend to pick at their belly, sides, and legs. Regular nail trimmings can prevent this. When it comes to lasers, there is an abundance of media hype and a dearth of rigorous scientific support.Consultation with a board certified aesthetic core physician with extensive experience in scar treatment is essential. These supplements can help to reduce pain and improve mobility. So, lets dive in. While it can be difficult to avoid cat scratches entirely when you have a playful feline in your home, there are certain measures you can take to help prevent complications. The first sign is often a red bump, sore, or blister at the site of the scratch or bite. Fireworks or other projectiles. For example, if your kitty turns their ears back, pressing them flat against their head that means they're uncomfortable. Another way to get rid of scars is to use a product called rosehip seed oil. It is important to know that some of the symptoms of cat-scratch fever are similar to those caused by other infections. In order to keep the scratches clean, change the bandage at least once a day or any time you notice that it's dirty or damp. I spoke to the doctor who said that all is OK etc. In conclusion, cat scratches can be dangerous, but the risks are usually low. This will help to prevent infection. But what happens if you get too many cat scratches? Let it heal naturally. Just as with people, the healing rate varies and depends on several factors, including the depth and severity of the wound, the overall health condition, and whether or not the wound becomes infected. No cost to you. Nursingpets.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. This is a clear, sticky sheet that you apply over the scar. Wash it with soap and water before applying the medicine. By 3-7 days: macrophages have already arrived (and started cleaning up the mess the neutrophils made), granulation tissue is formed, tiny little collagen fibers begin to show up, and the new epithelium increases in thickness. You can only make sure to do whatever it takes for your skin to heal and keep an eye out for any lumps on your skin. Hi, Everybody! These treatments can include steroid injections, laser treatment, and surgery. However, some people may develop a more serious infection that requires treatment with antibiotics. This will help prevent infection, which can lead to scarring. Small scratches tend to be on the skin's surface, which heals quickly in babies. If a cat has dry skin, its flesh will become increasingly delicate and itchy. A cone also prevents your cat from being able to scratch its face, ideal for stopping them from picking cat scabs on the neck or face. What Happens If You Get Too Many Cat Scratches? You can also treat with lasers such as Often keloid treatments of the ears require a multi modality approach with the following therapies: Vets call this "psychogenic alopecia.". This will help break down the scar tissue and make it less visible. If youre scratched by a cat, its important to clean the wound right away. These are just a few of the best over-the-counter products for treating cat. There are a number of things you can do to reduce the appearance of scars and make them less noticeable. Scars are a natural part of the healing process, but they can be unsightly and sometimes painful. Lemon juice: Lemon juice has bleaching properties that can help to fade scars. In rare cases, cat scratches have been known to transmit diseases like cat scratch fever. It's what we recommend to our surgery patients who are worried about scarring. Start by washing the area with soap and water. If you are looking for ways to get rid of your cat scratch scars, there are a few things you can do. Small tube. Applying a small amount of olive oil or coconut oil to the affected area may also be helpful. Scars are the least of your concerns. Keep the area moist while allowing air to circulate. As someone who typically scars badly (not hypertrophic, I'm just very pale), probably one out of 20 cat scratches leave a scar on me. "This is a topical silicone treatment that uses patented FDA-approved . The prognosis depends on the depth and severity of the laceration. Do Cat Scratches On Face Scar Treating Cat Scratches If the bleeding doesnt stop despite holding pressure, then medical attention should be sought. Some cat scratches can take a long to heal. Most people have experienced some kind of wound in their lifetime. It could be an infection that requires medication or something more hazardous in the long run. If you have been unlucky enough to suffer from a cat scratch, you may be wondering how to get rid of the scars. Before working with the area that suffered a scratch, be sure that your hands are clean and disinfected. The most important thing you can do once your cat is home is to provide good nursing care. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says that eye scratches tend to heal quickly. More than on treatment will be required.2-2 Fractional non ablative lasers alone in the same regiment as suggested above.Caution: Due to your skin type there is relatively high risk for color changes after laser treatment. Here are dermatologists' tips for reducing the appearance of scars caused by injuries such as skinned knees or deep scratches: Always keep your cut, scrape or other skin injury clean. However, if the scratch is deep or if it becomes infected, it can take longer to heal. For mild scars, you can expect to pay around $150 per session. BioCorneum Advanced Scar Treatment + SPF 30. Some claim that moisturizing or using specific oils helps speed up the process. Pope Francis Expected to Be Released From The Hospital in Time for Palm Sunday, E.coli from Ground Meat May Cause Over 480,000 UTIs Every Year, CDC Warns Deadly Bacteria Was Found in Formula and Breast Pump: What Parents Should Know, Person Dies From Brain-Eating Amoeba After Sinus Rinse, CDC Warns About Drug-Resistant Shigella: What to Know, red or discolored streaks emitting from the original scratch, flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, and chills, scratches or bites that increasingly become redder or discolored and more swollen, fever, aches, and other flu-like symptoms, bacillary angiomatosis, a progressive skin disorder that causes red or discolored, raised lesions that have scaly outer rings, red, irritated eyes along with flu-like symptoms, washing and caring for any accidental wounds during all types of interactions, avoiding rough play, particularly with kittens who are more prone to scratching, keeping your face away from your cat during playtime to prevent eye injuries, covering any open wounds you have, so that your cat cant lick them, creating an indoor-only environment for your cat, taking care with feral cats, or other felines that arent your own, keeping your cat up to date on their vaccines, such as rabies shots, staying up to date on your own vaccines, including, making sure your cat is adequately treated for fleas, as recommended by your vet. This includes tetanus, which is caused by the Clostridium tetani bacterium. When the bacteria enter the skin through the scratch, it can cause an infection. A good shampoo can help to improve the health and appearance of your cats coat. There are a few things you can do to help reduce the appearance of scars. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. 6 months to a year: This kind of scratch will take six months to a year to heal. This is a permanent solution, so make sure you are 100% happy with your design before going ahead with it. Dd is almost 2 and was petting one cat when he was standing on a window sill above her head. Theyre soft, theyre cuddly, and theyre often very playful. These include: In case the scratch is deep or seems to be getting infected, its important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Since some cases may turn into infections, its important to be aware of suspicious symptoms and to contact a doctor right away. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. First, keep your cats nails trimmed to minimize the damage they can do. Why Do Cat Scratches Cause Itch and Swelling? If you do end up with a scar, there are a few things you can do to help make it less noticeable. Mostly, cat scratches hurt, sometimes they sting and itch, and sometimes they just bleed. Have laser treatment: Laser treatment can be used to reduce the appearance of scars, but it can be quite expensive. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. A shallow scratch will heal quickly and is unlikely to leave a scar. In some cases, your cat may need to be seen by a veterinarian if the scratch is more than just a superficial wound. So, there you have it. Its highly unusual and not dangerous in healthy people. Your Cat's First Vet Visit: What You Need to Know, Stress-Free Vet Visits: How to Prepare Your Cat to Be Calm, Cat Skin & Coat Care: Tips for a Healthy Shine, Cat Grooming Secrets: Tips for Healthy, Happy Cats, Winning the War on Fleas: Prevention and Treatment, Why Your Cat Needs Annual Check-Ups for Optimal Health, Choosing the Right Vet for Your Cat's Needs, Vaccinations for Your Cat: What You Need to Know, never play with your cat with your bare hands, Difference Between Dogs and Cats Trust (loyalty & bonds), Why Do Male Dogs Drink Female Urine? Before a cat hisses, scratches and bites, or simply walks away they use their body language to tell you to stop. At least two people had serious infection moving up their arm. Since, the collagen produced is one's own, the results of subcision are typically permanent.Fractional microneedle therapy aka medical microneedling works by creating numerous areas of controlled microwounding that set off in turn a cascade of events that result in new, native collagen synthesis, which translates into healthier, thicker skin that improves the appearance of the underlying scars. It depends on how deep it is, if you cleaned it right away, your age and whether you kept it out of the light. It takes few days for natural healing of superficial layer of skin. Have ever had a cat scratch your face? If you have scars from surgery or an injury, you may want to try a silicone gel or silicone sheet. This is usually a last resort option, but it can be effective. Aloe vera gel is extracted from the leaves of the aloe vera plant. There are a number of these on the market, and they can help to diminish the appearance of scars. This is the most invasive scar treatment option and requires more healing time. Partial thickness lacerations have the best chance of recovering without complications . Its crucial to immediately cleanse the area where the cat or kitten bit or scratched you with soap and water. Surgical excision- In some cases the keloid must be excised because other therapies are not effective. They are usually harmless, but if it isnt benign, they could grow lethal in a relatively short amount of time. You can also try using a product called cocoa butter, which is a natural moisturizer that can help to soften the appearance of scars. And, in some cases, it may not disappear completely. Take Care. Covering the scratches protects against germs and bacteria to prevent them from getting infected. Gently wash the area with mild soap and water to keep out germs and remove debris. Stress and anxiety: When cats are stressed and obsessively lick and scratch, they can lose hair. Loss of volume causing indentation covered with relatively normal epidermis( the superficial layer of your skin)2. If youre experiencing a medical issue, please contact a healthcare professional or dial 911 immediately. Second, if your cat does scratch you, clean the wound immediately and apply a sterile bandage. So, there you have it! i find it so funny that everyone actually believes the scar on my face was my cat like???? Cons. Our 20-month old daughter had to get two very small stiches on the top of the bridge of her nose a few weeks ago after enduring a nasty bonk onto a windowsill. How To Prevent Your Cat From Scratching You? Then I blamed a food allergy. Its rich in essential fatty acids, which help to nourish and heal the skin. Learn more in our privacy policy. Well, there are a few things you can do to help speed up the process. But, the good news is, with the right treatment, most scars will eventually fade. The tips of a cats claws are very sharp and can easily pierce through the skin. Cats can get bored just like people, and when theyre bored, they may start to exhibit destructive behaviors, like scratching furniture or attacking their human companions. Do not use antiseptics, like hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or witch hazel, to disinfect the wound.