Are stitches, staples, or skin adhesives necessary for a bite?
A bite injury may need to be closed by a health professional, may require antibiotic medications, or both. The decision to close a wound with stitches, staples, or skin adhesive depends on: • The type of biting animal. • The size and location of the bite. • The time that has passed since the bite occurred. • The general health of the person bitten. It is important to determine if your wound needs to be closed by a health professional. Your risk of infection increases the longer the wound remains untreated. Most wounds that require treatment should be stitched, stapled, or closed with skin adhesives (also called liquid stitches) within 6 to 8 hours after the injury. Some wounds that require treatment can be closed as long as 24 hours after the injury. If stitches may be needed, avoid using an antiseptic or antibiotic ointment until after a health professional has examined the wound. • Most dog bites can be stitched, especially if the wound is large. • In general, cat bites are not stitc
