# Medical warnings on pet bite and scratch risks > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/medical-warnings-on-pet-bite-and-scratch-risks > Updated: 2026-08-19T07:47:41.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Medical experts, including infectious disease specialist Dr. Aslı Özer, have issued warnings regarding the health risks posed by cat and dog bites and scratches. Experts emphasize that the physical size of a wound is not a reliable indicator of danger, as small punctures can reach deep tissues and lead to infection within hours. Key identified risks include rabies, tetanus, and cat scratch disease caused by the ‘Bartonella henselae’ bacterium. Symptoms to monitor include fever, fatigue, redness, heat around the wound, and swollen lymph nodes. Individuals with chronic illnesses or suppressed immune systems are noted to be at a higher risk for serious complications. Medical advice recommends immediate first aid by washing the area thoroughly with soap and water. Professionals advise against simply covering a wound and waiting, suggesting instead that individuals seek medical evaluation to determine the necessity of antibiotics, tetanus shots, or rabies prophylaxis, particularly if the animal is unvaccinated or acting unusually. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-19: Medical experts warn of risks from animal bites and scratches Medical experts warn that small animal bites and scratches pose significant risks of infection, rabies, and tetanus, advising immediate cleaning with soap and water and professional medical evaluation. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/medical-experts-warn-of-risks-from-animal-bites-and-scratches ### 2026-08-15: Health expert warns of risks from pet bites and scratches Medical expert Dr. Aslı Özer warns that even small pet bites or scratches can lead to serious infections, including rabies, tetanus, and cat scratch disease, especially if symptoms like fever or swelling occur. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/health-expert-warns-of-risks-from-pet-bites-and-scratches --- Cite as: Medical warnings on pet bite and scratch risks. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/medical-warnings-on-pet-bite-and-scratch-risks