What to Do If a Rat Bites You

Immediate Actions After a Rat Bite

First Aid Steps

Cleaning the Wound

When a rat bite occurs, immediate wound care reduces infection risk. Begin by rinsing the area under running water for at least one minute to flush out saliva and debris. Use mild soap around the perimeter, but avoid scrubbing the tissue directly.

After cleaning, apply an antiseptic—such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine—using a sterile gauze pad. Press gently to ensure coverage, then cover the wound with a clean, non‑adhesive dressing. Change the dressing at least once daily, or sooner if it becomes wet or soiled.

Wash with running water (≥1 minute)
Apply mild soap to surrounding skin only
Disinfect with povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine
Secure with sterile dressing
Replace dressing daily and monitor for redness, swelling, or discharge

If signs of infection appear, or if the bite was deep, seek professional medical evaluation promptly.

Stopping the Bleeding

When a rat bite pierces the skin, immediate control of bleeding reduces the risk of infection and shock. Follow these steps without delay:

Apply direct pressure.
• Use a clean cloth, sterile gauze, or your hand to press firmly on the wound.
• Maintain pressure for at least 5‑10 minutes, checking intermittently that the blood flow has slowed or stopped.
Elevate the affected area.
• Raise the limb above heart level to diminish blood flow to the site.
• Keep the position steady while pressure is applied.
Use a pressure bandage if bleeding persists.
• Wrap the gauze with an elastic bandage, overlapping each turn by half its width.
• Ensure the bandage is snug but not so tight that it cuts off circulation; check pulse distal to the bandage.
If the wound continues to bleed after 15 minutes of pressure, seek emergency medical assistance.
• Persistent bleeding may indicate a larger vessel injury that requires professional intervention.

After bleeding is controlled, cleanse the area with mild soap and water, then cover with a sterile dressing. Prompt action limits blood loss and prepares the wound for further treatment, such as tetanus prophylaxis or antibiotic therapy.

Applying Antiseptic

When a rat bite occurs, immediate antiseptic treatment reduces infection risk. Begin by washing hands thoroughly, then rinse the wound with clean running water for at least 30 seconds to remove debris. Pat the area dry with a sterile gauze pad.

Select an antiseptic suitable for puncture wounds—options include:

70% isopropyl alcohol
Povidone‑iodine solution
Chlorhexidine gluconate (2%)

Apply the chosen antiseptic directly to the wound using a sterile swab. Ensure the solution covers the entire bite surface without excessive soaking, which can cause tissue irritation. Allow the antiseptic to air‑dry for a few minutes before proceeding to bandage.

After antiseptic application, cover the bite with a non‑adhesive sterile dressing. Change the dressing at least once daily or whenever it becomes wet or contaminated. Monitor the site for signs of worsening infection—redness spreading, increased swelling, pus, or fever—and seek medical evaluation promptly if such symptoms appear.

Seeking Medical Attention

When to See a Doctor Urgently

A rat bite can introduce bacteria, viruses, or parasites that may cause severe complications. Prompt medical evaluation prevents infection, tissue damage, and systemic illness.

Deep puncture or tearing of skin
Persistent bleeding that does not stop after applying pressure for several minutes
Swelling, redness, or warmth spreading rapidly from the wound site
Fever, chills, or malaise appearing within 24 hours
Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation around the bite
Signs of allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing
Known exposure to rats carrying leptospirosis, hantavirus, or rabies‑like agents
Immunocompromised condition (e.g., HIV, chemotherapy, diabetes) that lowers resistance to infection

If any of these indicators are present, seek emergency care without delay. While awaiting professional help, clean the wound with running water and mild soap, apply a sterile dressing, and avoid squeezing or probing the bite. Do not rely on over‑the‑counter antibiotics; a physician must assess the need for tetanus booster, rabies prophylaxis, or targeted antimicrobial therapy.

Information to Provide to Medical Staff

When you seek medical attention after a rat bite, provide the following information promptly and accurately.

Exact date and time of the incident.
Precise location where the bite occurred (e.g., home, workplace, outdoor area).
Description of the rat (species, size, apparent health, domesticated or wild).
Circumstances leading to the bite (handling, trapped, aggressive behavior).
Detailed account of the wound: number of punctures, depth, bleeding, presence of broken teeth or foreign material.
Any immediate first‑aid measures applied (pressure, cleaning agents, bandaging).
Personal medical history relevant to infection risk: tetanus immunization status, known allergies, chronic illnesses, immunosuppression.
Current medications, including antibiotics, anticoagulants, or immunosuppressants.
Recent travel history or exposure to areas with known rabies outbreaks.
Contact with other animals or known disease carriers in the days prior to the bite.

Providing this data enables clinicians to assess infection risk, determine the need for rabies prophylaxis, update tetanus protection, and select appropriate antimicrobial therapy.

Understanding Risks and Complications

Potential Infections

Rat-Bite Fever (RBF)

Rat‑Bite Fever (RBF) is a bacterial infection transmitted by the bite or scratch of an infected rodent. The causative agents are Streptobacillus moniliformis in most regions and Spirillum minus in parts of Asia. The disease can develop within 2–10 days after exposure.

Typical manifestations include high fever, chills, severe headache, muscle aches, and vomiting. A distinctive rash appears as red‑purple maculopapular spots, often beginning on the extremities and spreading centrally. Joint pain and swelling may accompany the illness, and in severe cases, heart valve inflammation (endocarditis) can occur.

Diagnosis relies on clinical observation and laboratory confirmation. Blood cultures, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), or serologic testing identify the pathogen. Prompt medical evaluation is essential because untreated RBF carries a mortality rate of up to 10 %.

Effective treatment consists of antibiotics administered for 10–14 days. Penicillin G is the first‑line drug; for patients with penicillin allergy, doxycycline or a macrolide may be used. Intravenous therapy is recommended for severe presentations, followed by oral continuation.

If a rat bite occurs, follow these steps:

Clean the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least one minute.
Apply an antiseptic solution (e.g., povidone‑iodine) after washing.
Cover the area with a sterile dressing to prevent secondary infection.
Seek medical attention without delay; inform the clinician about the rodent exposure.
Obtain prescribed antibiotics promptly and complete the full course, even if symptoms improve.
Monitor for fever, rash, joint pain, or cardiovascular signs for up to two weeks; report any new symptoms to a healthcare provider.

Preventive measures include avoiding direct contact with wild or stray rodents, using protective gloves when handling rats, and ensuring pets are vaccinated against rabies and other zoonoses. Regular pest control in homes and workplaces reduces the risk of bites and subsequent RBF.

Tetanus

A rat bite can introduce Clostridium tetani spores into the wound, creating a risk of tetanus infection. Prompt assessment of tetanus immunity is essential because the disease progresses rapidly and can be fatal.

If the bite occurs, follow these steps:

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for at least two minutes.
Apply an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine.
Control bleeding with gentle pressure; do not use a tourniquet.
Determine the last tetanus booster date. If the last dose was administered more than five years ago, or if the vaccination history is unknown, seek tetanus prophylaxis.
Obtain a tetanus‑containing vaccine (Tdap or Td) and, when indicated, a tetanus immune globulin injection.
Visit a healthcare professional for evaluation, especially if the wound is deep, contaminated, or shows signs of infection.

Medical providers will decide whether passive immunization (tetanus immune globulin) is required based on the wound’s severity and the patient’s immunization record. They will also prescribe antibiotics to address potential bacterial infection from the rat’s oral flora.

Monitoring the bite site for increasing redness, swelling, or pus is critical. If any of these symptoms develop, return to a medical facility immediately. Early intervention minimizes the chance of tetanus development and supports faster recovery.

Other Bacterial Infections

A rat bite introduces a range of bacterial pathogens beyond the most recognized rat‑bite fever. Immediate medical assessment is required to identify and treat these infections.

Common bacterial agents transmitted by rat bites include:

Streptobacillus moniliformis – causes rat‑bite fever with fever, rash, and polyarthralgia.
Leptospira interrogans – leads to leptospirosis; early symptoms are fever, headache, myalgia, and possible jaundice.
Pasteurella multocida – produces cellulitis, abscess formation, and purulent discharge.
Staphylococcus aureus – may result in severe skin infection and, rarely, systemic involvement.
Clostridium tetani – can cause tetanus if the wound is contaminated and the patient lacks immunity.

Prompt antibiotic therapy, guided by culture when possible, reduces complications. Empiric treatment often starts with a broad‑spectrum agent such as amoxicillin‑clavulanate; alternative regimens include doxycycline for suspected leptospirosis or ceftriaxone for severe systemic infection. Tetanus prophylaxis must be administered according to immunization status.

Monitoring for evolving signs—rapidly spreading redness, increasing pain, fever, or joint swelling—ensures timely escalation of care. Documentation of the incident, including animal source and bite location, supports appropriate laboratory testing and public‑health reporting.

Other Health Concerns

Allergic Reactions

A rat bite can trigger an allergic response in susceptible individuals. Symptoms may appear within minutes and include swelling, redness, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, or a rapid pulse. Recognizing these signs promptly is essential for preventing escalation.

If an allergic reaction is suspected, take the following actions:

Apply a cold compress to the bite area to reduce swelling and pain.
Administer an over‑the‑counter antihistamine (e.g., diphenhydramine) according to the label instructions, unless contraindicated.
If the person experiences wheezing, throat tightness, or a drop in blood pressure, call emergency services immediately and, if available, use an epinephrine auto‑injector.
Keep the wound clean with mild soap and water, then cover with a sterile dressing while awaiting medical evaluation.

Medical professionals will assess the severity, may prescribe corticosteroids or a longer‑acting antihistamine, and will determine whether further treatment, such as tetanus prophylaxis, is required. Documenting the bite and any prior allergies helps clinicians tailor care and reduce future risk.

Scarring

A rat bite can leave a wound that heals with a visible scar. Prompt, proper care reduces tissue damage and minimizes permanent discoloration.

Clean the puncture immediately with sterile saline or mild soap and water. Apply an antiseptic, then cover with a non‑adhesive dressing. Change the dressing at least once daily, inspecting for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus.

To limit scarring:

Keep the wound moist with a thin layer of petroleum jelly or silicone gel; dry scabs tend to contract and darken.
Protect the area from sun exposure; ultraviolet radiation deepens pigmentation. Use a broad‑spectrum SPF 30 or higher if outdoor exposure is unavoidable.
Begin gentle massage after the skin has fully closed, using circular motions to break down collagen bundles and promote a flatter scar.
Consult a healthcare professional if the bite is deep, contaminated, or shows delayed healing. Prescription topical steroids or silicone sheets may be recommended for hypertrophic or keloid formation.

Long‑term monitoring includes periodic assessment of scar texture and color. If the scar remains raised, discolored, or painful after several months, dermatological interventions such as laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or intralesional injections can improve appearance and function.

Medical Treatment and Follow-Up

Doctor's Examination and Diagnosis

Wound Assessment

When a rat punctures the skin, the first priority is a systematic evaluation of the injury. Rapid, thorough assessment determines the need for emergency care, the risk of infection, and the appropriate follow‑up actions.

Inspect the entry point: note size, shape, and depth of the puncture.
Determine bleeding intensity: active spurting suggests arterial involvement; steady oozing may indicate venous injury.
Palpate surrounding tissue for swelling, induration, or crepitus, which can signal deeper damage or gas‑forming bacteria.
Look for signs of contamination: fur, saliva, or debris embedded in the wound.
Assess the location: bites on hands, feet, or face carry higher functional risk and may require specialist consultation.
Record the time elapsed since the bite; delayed presentation increases infection probability.
Verify tetanus immunization status; lack of a recent booster warrants prophylaxis.
Consider rabies exposure based on the rat’s health, geographic region, and local wildlife guidelines.

Document findings precisely, including measurements, photographs if possible, and any observed symptoms such as fever or chills. Immediate cleaning with sterile saline, followed by gentle debridement of visible debris, reduces bacterial load. If any of the following conditions are present—deep penetration, uncontrolled bleeding, signs of infection, unknown vaccination history, or high‑risk anatomical site—seek professional medical treatment without delay.

Medical History Review

After a rat bite, the first clinical step is to obtain a thorough medical history before any treatment is administered. This record establishes baseline health, identifies factors that could alter infection risk, and guides prophylactic decisions.

Key elements to document include:

Recent vaccinations, especially tetanus and rabies immunizations, with dates and manufacturer.
Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, liver disease, HIV/AIDS, or immunosuppressive conditions that may impair wound healing.
Current medications, focusing on anticoagulants, corticosteroids, biologics, or any drug that suppresses immune function.
Documented drug allergies, particularly to antibiotics commonly used for rodent‑borne infections (e.g., penicillins, doxycycline).
Previous episodes of animal bites or known exposures to zoonotic pathogens.

The collected data informs the selection of antibiotics, the need for tetanus booster administration, and the urgency of rabies post‑exposure prophylaxis. Accurate history also alerts clinicians to potential complications, such as delayed wound closure in immunocompromised patients or heightened bleeding risk in anticoagulated individuals.

Treatment Options

Antibiotics

When a rat bite occurs, prompt medical care is essential. After wound cleaning and assessment, a clinician must decide on antimicrobial therapy to prevent infection and address potential pathogens such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Pasteurella, and Leptospira.

First‑line oral agents commonly prescribed include:

Amoxicillin‑clavulanate, 875 mg/125 mg twice daily for 5–7 days.
Doxycycline, 100 mg twice daily for 7 days, especially when Leptospira risk is high.
Trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole, 160 mg/800 mg twice daily for 5 days, an alternative for patients allergic to β‑lactams.

If a patient cannot tolerate oral medication, intravenous options are available:

Ceftriaxone, 1–2 g daily, effective against a broad range of gram‑negative and gram‑positive organisms.
Piperacillin‑tazobactam, 3.375 g every 6 hours, reserved for severe infections or suspected polymicrobial involvement.

Selection criteria:

Allergies: avoid β‑lactams in penicillin‑allergic individuals; use doxycycline or fluoroquinolones.
Local resistance patterns: prefer agents with documented efficacy against resistant Staphylococcus aureus if prevalence is high.
Renal function: adjust doses of doxycycline and ceftriaxone in impaired clearance.

Treatment should commence within 24 hours of the bite. Delays increase the likelihood of cellulitis, abscess formation, or systemic illness. Completion of the full prescribed course is mandatory, even if symptoms improve early, to ensure eradication of hidden pathogens.

Follow‑up evaluation after 48–72 hours assesses wound healing and detects complications. Persistent redness, swelling, or fever warrants reassessment and possible escalation to broader‑spectrum intravenous therapy.

Tetanus Shot

A rat bite introduces a wound that can harbor Clostridium tetani spores, which may cause tetanus if the bacteria reach nervous tissue. Prompt immunization prevents this serious infection.

First, verify the victim’s tetanus vaccination record. If the individual has not received a full primary series or cannot confirm the last dose, a tetanus toxoid injection is required.

Guidelines for administering the shot:

Give the vaccine as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours of the bite.
If the last tetanus booster was administered more than 10 years ago, provide a booster dose.
For a wound considered dirty or contaminated, a booster is indicated if the previous dose was more than 5 years ago.

The tetanus dose (0.5 mL) is delivered intramuscularly, typically in the deltoid muscle. Health‑care facilities that can supply the vaccine include emergency departments, urgent‑care clinics, primary‑care offices, and pharmacies offering immunizations. Either Td (tetanus‑diphtheria) or Tdap (tetanus‑diphtheria‑pertussis) may be used; Tdap is preferred for adults who have not previously received it.

After inoculation, observe the injection site for signs of redness, swelling, or severe pain. Systemic reactions such as fever or malaise should be reported to a medical professional. The tetanus vaccine does not replace the need for wound cleaning, antibiotic therapy, or rabies evaluation, which are also critical components of rat‑bite management.

Rabies Risk Assessment and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

When a rat bite occurs, the first step is to determine whether rabies exposure is plausible. Rats are not typical rabies reservoirs; documented cases of rabies transmission from rodents are exceedingly rare. Nevertheless, an assessment must consider the animal’s health, behavior, and origin. If the rat was wild, found in an area with known rabies activity, or displayed abnormal neurological signs (e.g., aggression, excessive salivation, paralysis), the risk escalates and warrants professional evaluation.

Key factors for risk assessment:

Species verification (identifying the animal as a rat or another rodent).
Exposure context (wild vs. captive, geographic region with active rabies cases).
Clinical signs in the animal (lethargy, erratic behavior, foaming at the mouth).
Availability of the animal for observation or testing.

If any factor suggests potential rabies exposure, initiate post‑exposure prophylaxis (PEP) without delay. PEP consists of two components:

Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) – administered once, infiltrated around the wound site to provide immediate passive immunity.
Rabies vaccine series – a series of intramuscular injections on days 0, 3, 7, and 14 (and a fifth dose on day 28 for immunocompromised individuals).

PEP should be started as soon as possible after the bite; each hour of delay reduces effectiveness. Wound care is essential: irrigate the bite thoroughly with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and seek medical attention for proper dressing and tetanus update.

Documentation of the incident, including photographs of the wound and details about the rat’s condition, assists healthcare providers in making an informed decision about PEP administration. If the animal can be captured and observed for ten days without signs of rabies, the need for PEP may be re‑evaluated, but immediate treatment remains the safest approach when uncertainty exists.

Recovery and Monitoring

Wound Care Instructions

When a rat punctures the skin, immediate care reduces infection risk and promotes healing.

Wash hands thoroughly before touching the wound.
Rinse the bite under running water for at least one minute; use mild soap around the area, avoiding direct contact with the wound itself.
Apply a sterile saline solution or an antiseptic (e.g., povidone‑iodine) to cleanse the site.
Pat the area dry with a clean gauze pad; do not rub.
Cover the bite with a sterile, non‑adhesive dressing. Secure it loosely to allow airflow while protecting against contaminants.
Change the dressing every 24 hours or sooner if it becomes wet or soiled.
Observe for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, fever, or escalating pain. Report any of these symptoms to a medical professional promptly.
Complete any prescribed antibiotic regimen; do not discontinue treatment without guidance.
Schedule a follow‑up appointment to verify proper healing and discuss tetanus vaccination status if needed.

Prompt, systematic wound management minimizes complications and supports recovery after a rodent bite.

Recognizing Signs of Complications

After a rat bite, prompt identification of adverse developments can prevent severe outcomes. Monitor the wound and overall health for specific indicators that suggest infection or systemic involvement.

Expanding redness or a halo of erythema around the bite site
Increasing swelling or firmness of the tissue
Warmth that exceeds normal skin temperature
Presence of pus, foul odor, or fluid drainage
Fever above 38 °C (100.4 °F) or chills
Tender, enlarged lymph nodes near the bite, especially in the groin or armpit
Escalating pain that does not diminish with basic care
Red streaks radiating from the wound toward the heart (lymphangitis)
Shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, or dizziness, indicating possible sepsis

If any of these signs appear, seek medical attention immediately. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics and, when indicated, tetanus prophylaxis, reduces the risk of complications such as cellulitis, abscess formation, or systemic infection. Continuous observation for at least 48 hours after the bite is advisable, even when the wound initially seems minor.

Prevention of Future Bites

Rodent Control in Homes and Outdoors

Sealing Entry Points

Sealing entry points stops rats from re‑entering the premises, reducing the risk of future bites. Identify all possible openings, including gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and foundation cracks. Use a systematic approach: inspect each room, examine the exterior wall line, and check the attic and crawl spaces.

Close gaps larger than ¼ inch with steel wool, copper mesh, or hardware cloth, then apply a durable sealant such as silicone or polyurethane caulk.
Install door sweeps on exterior doors and weather‑stripping around frames to eliminate narrow passages.
Repair damaged siding, brick, or stucco with mortar or appropriate patching compound, ensuring the surface is smooth and flush.
Seal utility penetrations by wrapping the opening with metal flashing and securing it with expanding foam that adheres to both surfaces.

After sealing, monitor for new activity. If signs of intrusion appear, repeat the inspection and reinforce any weakened areas. Maintaining a fully sealed environment minimizes rodent access and protects occupants from bites and related health hazards.

Proper Food Storage

Proper food storage directly influences the likelihood of rodent encounters and the severity of any bite incident. Secure containers and regular cleaning eliminate attractants, reducing the chance that a rat will enter a living space and cause injury.

Key practices for safe food handling:

Use airtight, rodent‑proof containers for all dry goods, pet food, and waste.
Store perishables in sealed refrigerators or freezers; inspect seals for damage.
Keep countertops, floors, and cabinets free of crumbs and spills; wipe surfaces after each meal.
Dispose of garbage daily in bins with tight‑fitting lids; locate bins away from doors and windows.
Rotate stock regularly; discard items past their expiration date to avoid spoilage that draws pests.

When a bite occurs, treat any food that may have contacted the animal as contaminated. Discard opened packages, utensils, and surfaces that cannot be thoroughly sanitized. Clean affected areas with a detergent followed by an approved disinfectant before restoring normal use. These steps prevent secondary infection and limit further exposure to pathogens carried by the rat.

Eliminating Hiding Places

Eliminating hiding places is a critical step after a rat bite incident. Rats thrive in concealed environments; removing those sites reduces the risk of repeated encounters and limits the spread of disease.

Inspect all areas where rodents can shelter. Focus on spaces behind appliances, under sinks, in wall voids, and within attic insulation. Seal openings larger than a quarter inch with steel wool, metal flashing, or cement. Replace damaged weatherstripping on doors and windows.

Clear clutter that provides cover. Store boxes, laundry, and firewood off the floor and away from walls. Keep stored items in sealed plastic containers rather than cardboard. Trim vegetation that brushes against the building, as branches can serve as bridges for rats to reach entry points.

Maintain a clean environment to discourage nesting. Dispose of food waste in sealed containers, sweep crumbs promptly, and vacuum regularly to remove droppings and urine residues. Clean up pet food after each feeding and store it in airtight containers.

Implement a systematic schedule:

Conduct a thorough visual sweep weekly.
Repair identified gaps within 48 hours.
Remove debris and reorganize storage monthly.
Review exterior landscaping quarterly.

By rigorously eliminating hiding places, the likelihood of additional bites diminishes, supporting a safer, healthier living space.

Safety Precautions Around Rodents

Avoiding Wild Rodents

Avoiding contact with wild rodents reduces the risk of bites and the diseases they can transmit. Secure food sources by storing pantry items in sealed containers, cleaning up spills promptly, and disposing of garbage in tightly closed bins. Eliminate shelter by sealing cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, foundations, and roofs; install metal flashing around vents and utility penetrations. Maintain a tidy exterior: trim vegetation away from building foundations, remove debris, and keep compost piles covered.

Implement environmental controls:

Set up snap traps or live‑catch traps in areas of activity, positioning them along walls where rodents travel.
Use bait stations with rodenticides strictly according to label instructions and local regulations.
Deploy ultrasonic repellents only as supplemental measures; they do not replace physical barriers.

Personal precautions are essential when entering areas with known rodent activity. Wear thick gloves, long sleeves, and protective footwear. Avoid handling rodents directly; use tools such as tongs or cages if capture is necessary. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after any exposure to potential contaminants.

Regular inspection schedules help detect early signs of infestation. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, and nesting material. Record observations and act immediately if evidence appears, contacting a licensed pest‑management professional for comprehensive remediation.

Handling Pet Rats Safely

Pet rats can bite when they feel threatened, stressed, or startled. Proper handling reduces the likelihood of injury and creates a safer environment for both owner and animal.

Wash hands thoroughly before any interaction. Clean, dry skin minimizes scent that might alarm the rat.
Approach slowly, allowing the rat to see the hand. Avoid sudden movements that could trigger a defensive response.
Support the rat’s hindquarters with one hand while the other gently cups the torso. This grip prevents the animal from scrambling and reduces the chance of a bite.
Keep nails trimmed and avoid exposing sharp jewelry that could be mistaken for a threat.
Limit handling sessions to 10‑15 minutes initially; extend duration as the rat becomes accustomed to human contact.

If a bite occurs, act immediately:

Apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding.
Rinse the wound with running water for at least 30 seconds; use mild soap if available.
Disinfect with an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine or hydrogen peroxide.
Cover with a sterile bandage and monitor for signs of infection: redness, swelling, pus, or increasing pain.
Seek medical evaluation promptly, especially if the rat’s vaccination status is unknown or if the wound is deep.

After care includes updating tetanus immunization if required, documenting the incident, and reviewing handling techniques to prevent recurrence. Regular health checks for the rat, proper cage enrichment, and consistent routine handling reinforce trust and lower bite risk.