rheanna

rmv1983,

It isn't likely that the cat is infected with rabies. Anything is possible, of course, but I think it's very unlikely. Responsible cat owners get their pets immunized against rabies when the cat is going to spend any time roaming the outdoors. You can't know if this particular cat is immunized, of course, but it probably is.

More than likely, you'll just get a local infection at the site of the scratch (cat claws are pretty dirty!). Keep the skin clean, and your body will do its magic work of clearing up the infection.

Cats who are intent on defending their territory can be very single-minded. They often are not able to make a distinction between some third party who has come to join the fight, and their beloved slave (cats don't have masters!) who only wants to help. It's risky to step into the middle of the fight, as you discovered. I suggest two approaches the next time you feel the need to step in and rescue Fluffy from the neighbor cat (who is just trying to establish whose territory your yard belongs to).

First, it's safer to use something to distract them, like water from a hose or something thrown into their midst. When there is a pause in the action, you might be able to chase the other cat away.

Second, if you feel the need to wade in there yourself, then try using your "I'm the mom and I mean business" voice to clearly identify yourself to your own cat as you approach. Your cat might be willing to let you rescue it without turning on you, but you are still at the mercy of the other cat.

Otherwise, as someone who has received a lot of cat scratches, I can attest to the amazing ability of the human body to heal itself, as long as I remember to clean the wound immediately and keep it clean for a few days.

--Rheanna