Puncture Wounds

Includes: Skin punctures and Subcutaneous emphysema

Cause/Info

  • Mostly cat damage

Treatment Options

  • Antibiotics for cat damage.
  • Deflation of subcutaneous emphysema with a small sterile hypodermic needle and provision of antibiotic cover.
  • Confine the bat to restrict movement temporarily while healing.

Considerations

  • Depth and site of puncture.
  • Possibility of invisible internal injuries.
  • Inflation may reoccur.
  • Occult injuries should be considered if the bat appears moribund and its condition does not improve with first aid.