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My vaccinated cat scratched me. Is rabies or infection a risk?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Female | unspayed | 3 months and 2 days old | 2 lbs

Luna was vaccinated against rabies on the 25th of April and the vet said they'd vaccinate her again after six months. She also got a certain antibiotic in the beginning of May. She just scratched my mom accidentally (jumpscare scared her!) and the scratch was at the junction of palm and finger (bottom of finger) and so it obviously bled a bit. But we put isopropyl alcohol and an antibiotic on it. Should we be concerned or is it okay because she is vaccinated? Vet said she's healthy.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Oneal Bogan, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 27th, 2019

Hi there. You don't need to worry about rabies, but cat scratches can cause infection because cat's have a lot of bacteria in their nails. I would recommend cleaning it with some dial soap or other anti-septic, and monitoring it closely. If the cut or hand begins to swell, I would seek medical attention. I hope that helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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