Animal Bites: Vital parenting information from Eyewitness News

Playing with the family pet can bring smiles to little faces. But the two don't always live in harmony. Animal bites and scratches are common. The CDC has logged millions of dog bites every year, and about half of all reported cat bites become infected. Children are more likely than grownups to bear the brunt of those injuries, so Pediatrician Dr. Joe Matusic, says you may have to act fast.

Dr. Joe Matusic, MD/Pediatrician
For any type of animal bite, any bite that causes a puncture, the first rule of thumb is to make sure that animal has had its rabies shot, or that it's not at risk for rabies. If it's a wild animal try and capture it. If it's a domesticated animal it should have had its rabies shot, but you really have to make sure of that.

Rabies is always a concern, especially from the bites of various types of animals including bats. Because once you show signs, it's too late. Only one person has survived rabies. One person in history.

Cat scratch fever may sound familiar to you. The scratch gets infected and the bacteria can travel to your lymph nodes. Dr. Matusic says here are some things to take note of about felines.

Dr. Joe Matusic, MD
It should be called kitten scratch fever, not cat scratch disease. Once cats reach a certain age they develop antibodies to that bacteria and it goes away. But the bites are more common to have pasturella which is a serious infection. The scratches uncommonly can give cat scratch disease. Dog scratches usually don't get infected.

The doctor adds, a bite from a human is more prone to infection than a dog bite. And remember, infants and young children should never be left alone with a dog. Also, talk to your doctor about a tetanus shot if you or your child has received a bite from an animal.