My dog was scratched by a rabbit. When should I take him to the vet?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! What else to do for it depends on what it looks like on physical examination which is hard for me to tell without an evaluation. If it looks superficial and you cleaned it then it is likely to heal. However, it may not if it is deep or it is infected. If no improvement or worsening in the next few days, have her evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Good luck and have a great day!

Unfortunately without a picture, I cannot tell you what the scratch is. Also, I am not sure what body part an "eat" is. In general, if the scratch is no longer bleeding, you can monitor it before taking Bun Bun into the veterinarian. You do need to monitor the area closely, however, for redness, swelling, discharge that is white, clear, or green in color, and pain. If any of these occur, a visit to your veterinarian is indicated as these can all be signs of infection. Infections often require treatment with antibiotics, and pain relieving medications. Please do not administer any antibiotics or pain medications that you have at home, as many of these can hurt rabbits due to their specialized gastrointestinal tracts (stomach and intestines). I am unable to tell you specifics on costs for a veterinary visit, but I would recommend that you call the veterinarian's office and you can ask for their office call fee to get an estimate. I hope that helps!

Ouch, poor Bambi! Gently clean the wound with warm water and antiseptic soap. Keep your dog away from her, and have her rest quietly so the wound can heal. Monitor it, and if it becomes red, swollen, warm to the touch, or you see pus, then it's infected and she should see a vet right away for antibiotics. I hope this helps!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I agree with you, this wound does look deep enough that it would require stitches. Further local therapy wound include flushing, debriding and sutures and antibiotics would be recommended as well. I recommend that you have Maverick evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Usually these wounds are treatable and respond well to appropriate management. Your veterinarian would also be able to prescribe medications for pain as he is likely experiencing pain to some extent. Good luck and have a good night!

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. It does not look infected to me, and it looks like it’s healing. I’d keep an eye on it for now. If you see swelling, warmth to the touch, extreme redness, and pus, have him seen by a vet. Should it not get better or gets bigger, also have him seen by a vet. Keep the area clean and dry. I hope this helps.

If the wound will not heal or grows larger, then she should be physically examined by your veterinarian. A fungal culture would be needed to diagnose ringworm infection. If you see her licking or chewing, use an e-collar. Keep her nails trimmed to prevent trauma from excessive scratching. You can clean the area with a diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) solution daily. Dry thoroughly afterwards.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Keep the wound clean and dry. You can use just a damp cloth to clean the wound if needed. I would not recommend using any appointments or peroxide is that can cause worsening irritation. It will probably heal up just fine, but if you notice any swelling or discharge I recommend that does it to rule out infection or need for antibiotics.