Cat Emergency Snake Bite in McKinney, TX

How to Handle an Emergency Cat Snake Bite

We have about 30 species of venomous snakes in the U.S., ranging from 23 species of rattlesnakes to three species of coral snakes, two species of cottonmouths, and two species of copperheads. However, rattlesnakes (aka rattlers), cottonmouths, and copperheads make up 95% of the snakebites in the U.S. annually, and many of them are in Texas.

 

How Do I Know if It's an Emergency Cat Snake Bite?

Watch out for the following signs:

  • Bite marks
  • Bleeding from the cat snake bite area
  • Limping (because most often cats are bitten on the leg)
  • Nausea
  • Pain and swelling around the bite area
  • Slow or ragged breathing
  • Sluggish behavior
  • Whimpering (from the pain)

 

What to Do for a Cat Snake Bite

Cats are known to have nine lives, but cat snakebites should be taken very seriously.

Some cats are quite happy being indoor kitties. However, for those adventurous felines that are allowed to roam around outdoors in McKinney, TX, there's always a possibility of a curious cat encountering a poisonous snake. So, what do you do if your cat suffers a snakebite?

  • Start by carefully approaching your cat.
  • If it is anxious or nervous, restrain it (if necessary).
  • If possible, trim the fur from the bite area.
  • Thoroughly flush the bite area with mild soap or sterile saline solution.
  • Call ahead and then immediately transport him/her to the McKinney Emergency Veterinary Clinic near me.

 

Can an Emergency Cat Snake Bite Be Fatal?

Cats have a much higher survival rate than dogs (66% vs. 31%) if bitten by an eastern brown snake for example. However, that being said, cat snake bites are extremely painful and sometimes life-threatening. They can cause blood clotting abnormalities, tissue swelling, and even tissue death. Antivenom is the best treatment, especially when given immediately following a cat snake bite. The sooner the better. In addition, a blood transfusion could be necessary in a severe case, especially when a delay in starting antivenom treatment occurs.

 

Contact Us For Pet Emergencies Near Me

At McKinney Emergency Veterinary Clinic, our goal is to ensure that your fur-baby receives life-saving therapy asap. Our antivenom transfusions save precious lives every day. So, if you've been asking, "Where can I get treatment for an emergency cat snake bite near me?" you've come to the right place. So, contact us today for a healthier pet tomorrow. And, remember, the best way to protect your precious pet from any kind of snakebite is to simply keep your cat inside.