Holes and Tears

Cause/Info

  • A hole injury is defined as a hole where the wing margin remains intact.
  • A tear is defined as a rip that extends through the edge of the membrane.
  • Holes and tears are mostly caused by cat attacks.
  • Bats may also have old holes that do not inhibit flight.

Treatment Options

  • Antibiotics may be necessary if damage is cat-related.
  • Holes and rips in the membranes mostly heal naturally while in care.

Considerations

  • Are there any other injuries (e.g. fractures or dislocations) that need to be addressed?
  • Small holes heal very quickly. Larger holes and tears require longer rehabilitation with flight facilities. The bat may need to be passed to a carer with appropriate facilities.
  • Tears: If with gentle manipulation the membrane appears to be ‘complete’ (the sides match up) healing is more likely.
  • If the tear is alongside the finger bone (often the fifth finger) it is likely to heal but if the finger bone is completely de-gloved (exposed) infection is likely and the prognosis is poor. If part of the finger bone has been amputated (particularly, for example, below the last knuckle of the fifth finger) the membrane may heal but loss of further bone may limit flight.
  • With large tears, the resultant scar tissue/contraction of the wing may preclude perfect flight.
  • There is ongoing research in this area – consult experienced bat carers or contact BCT for further updates.