Rat bites are highly treatable. First, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water. You should visit a healthcare provider promptly for evaluation. Regarding treatments: Tetanus Vaccine: You will likely need a tetanus booster if you haven't had one in the last 5 to 10 years. Antibiotics: Your doctor may prescribe a generic antibiotic, such as amoxicillin-clavulanate, to prevent bacterial infections like rat-bite fever. Rabies Vaccine: Rabies transmission from rats is extremely rare, but a doctor will assess if your local area poses any risk. Please have a professional evaluate the bite today.

Yes, in some cases, Rabishield (Rabies human monoclonal antibody) and Rabipur (Rabies immunoglobulin) are given as part of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis. These vaccines will be administered by a doctor. Do not self-administer.

Dog bites typically cause deep, curved puncture wounds or tears, while scratches appear as linear, shallow scrapes. For both, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for 15 minutes to reduce infection risk. Regardless of the difference, you should see a doctor. Both bites and scratches can transmit rabies if the dog's saliva was on its claws. Depending on the dog's vaccination status, a doctor may recommend the Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) vaccine and a Tetanus toxoid booster if you are not up-to-date. Don't worry; prompt medical care and these vaccines are highly effective at keeping you safe.