If you notice your cat scratching you, it can cause pain, red marks, and sometimes bleeding. If you’re not careful, this scratch could lead to infection and bleeding. You should immediately clean the scratch with a soap and water solution and pat it dry. If you see an infection, apply sterile gauze to the scratched area and cover it with a sterile bandage. If you suspect that your cat has scratch disease, contact your veterinarian.
Discourage inappropriate scratching by removing or covering other desirable objects
When you don’t want your cat scratching the furniture or other items in your home, try discouraging it with a soft, padded scratch pad or cover. A cat may choose other objects to scratch, based on shape, texture, or location. Remove or cover these objects, and your cat may stop scratching them altogether. This method is easy to implement, and most cats tolerate it well.
Another option is aversion therapy, which can be very effective in reducing destructive scratching. Cats may prefer a scratching post instead, so you can give them catnip or a cat toy to encourage them. Other effective solutions include covering the object with plastic or double-sided sticky tape or placing an upside-down vinyl carpet runner on the floor. Another option is to place scratching posts near the desired objects. Keeping nails clipped and trimmed regularly can help to deter destructive scratching. You can also consider placing plastic or sandpaper claw caps on your cat’s claws. The plastic caps are temporary.
Apply first aid
In the event your cat scratches you, apply first aid as soon as possible. Scratches are often not serious but can lead to other issues. Only a medical doctor can determine whether a cat scratch is serious. After the scratch is done, contact your healthcare provider so that treatment can be administered. In addition to applying first aid, you should be mindful of your cat’s health history. Cats are notorious for their aggressive behaviors.
A wound that is shallow enough to be treated at home should be cleaned and covered with a clean cloth. A deeper wound is more likely to be infected and have other complications. Make sure you know the signs of infection. You should also be aware of tetanus and other diseases that cats can contract if they scratch. It’s important to be protected against these diseases by applying first aid every ten years.
Call a veterinarian for cat scratch disease
Treatment for cat scratch disease is based on the severity of the infection and the immune status of the cat. In most cases, the infection is self-limiting, and conservative treatment is recommended. Antibiotics should be administered only if the cat has a severe systemic disease, or if the cat is immunocompromised. However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, call a veterinarian for cat scratch disease.
The first sign of cat scratch disease is a small bump or blister on the affected area. The area will continue to grow larger for 2 to 3 days. A fever and abdominal pain may also occur. If these symptoms persist, call a veterinarian for cat scratch disease. This infection can be very painful and requires immediate treatment to prevent further damage to your cat and the skin surrounding it. If your cat has scratched you have a small blister on your skin, it may be a bacterial infection.
Redirect your cat’s attention away from you
The most effective way to stop your cat from scratching you is to redirect its attention away from you. This will help you prevent the cat from repeating the bad behavior. You should also provide stimulation to your cat and step away when it starts to act aggressively. If you must respond to aggressive behavior, always react calmly. Do not chase, pet, or otherwise negatively reinforce your cat. Instead, react calmly and step away as needed.
Cats are a gentle species and will often nibble or hold your hands. If it starts to put pressure on your hand, try to ignore it and move on. This way, it will learn not to use its claws and grasp. Cats may also be responsive to certain sound frequencies. Try to avoid using your voice in a low or high-pitched tone. This way, your cat will be more responsive to your voice.