Bites and scratches from animals are a common reason for medical visits in Spain. Most heal without problems, but some can become seriously infected if they are not treated properly.
How common are they?
Around two in every 100 people in Spain see a doctor each year because of an animal-related injury. Dog bites are by far the most common, followed by cat bites. Human bites, though less frequent, also occur.
Different bites, different risks
Dog bites. In children they often affect the face; in adults, the arms and hands. A minority become infected.
Cat bites. They look like small punctures, but cats’ sharp teeth can carry bacteria deep into the tissue, including joints and tendons. A high proportion become infected if not treated.
Human bites. These carry a high risk of infection and can, in rare cases, transmit viruses such as hepatitis B or C.
What to do immediately
- Get to a safe place away from the animal.
- Let the wound bleed a little if the bleeding is not heavy — it can help flush out germs.
- Wash thoroughly with soap and running water for several minutes.
- Rinse with clean water or saline.
- Remove visible dirt.
- Cover with a clean dressing.
- Raise the limb to reduce swelling if the bite is on an arm or leg.
When to see a doctor
- If the wound is deep or a puncture wound, especially from a cat.
- If it is on the hand, face, a joint or the genitals.
- If it shows signs of infection: redness, swelling, heat, pus or increasing pain.
- If you are unsure when you last had a tetanus vaccine.
- If the animal was wild, unknown or behaving strangely.
Medical treatment
Doctors will decide on treatment according to the type of animal, the depth and location of the wound, and your vaccination history. It may include:
- antibiotics to prevent infection;
- a tetanus booster if needed;
- assessment for rabies if there is any possibility the animal was infected — rare in Spain but relevant for wild animals and bites abroad;
- stitches, which may be done straight away for clean wounds, or delayed for high-risk wounds such as punctures and bites to the hands.
Reporting
In Spain, animal bites must be reported to the health authorities, who monitor the animal — usually through a period of veterinary observation — to rule out rabies. If the bite was caused by an aggressive dog, the incident may also need to be reported to the police or the local council.
Most bites can be prevented: never approach unfamiliar animals, don’t disturb animals that are eating or sleeping, and always supervise young children with pets.
