How to Treat a Rabbit Bite

Rabbit bites may not look serious, but they can introduce harmful bacteria into the skin, causing infection. Seek medical attention for serious wounds, especially if they show signs of infection or the bite was from an unfamiliar rabbit that could be carrying diseases such as rabies or tularemia.

For minor rabbit bites that just puncture the skin:

1. Stop the bleeding. Apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage until the bleeding stops.

2. Clean the wound. Use soap and water to gently clean the wound and remove any dirt or debris.

3. Apply an antibiotic cream. To help prevent infection, apply a thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic cream to the wound.

4. Cover the wound. Use a clean bandage to cover the wound and protect it from infection.

5. Monitor the wound. Watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, or drainage. If you notice any signs of infection, seek medical attention.

6. Seek medical care. If the bite is deep, bleeding heavily, or shows signs of infection, seek medical attention immediately. It's particularly crucial to get medical care if the bite is from an unfamiliar rabbit as a rabies vaccination may be necessary.