Which substance is commonly implicated in dog bites but especially in cat bites?

Pasteurella multocida is the substance most commonly associated with dog and especially cat bites. This bacterium is a part of the normal flora in the mouths of cats and dogs, making it particularly relevant in bite wounds from these animals. When a cat or dog bites, this bacteria can be introduced into the skin and potentially lead to infections. Cat bites tend to have a higher likelihood of infection due to the deeper puncture wounds they create, which may allow Pasteurella multocida to enter subcutaneous tissues more readily.

The clinical significance of Pasteurella multocida is further highlighted by the characteristic rapid onset and progression of infection following an animal bite. Patients may present with symptoms such as swelling, redness, and pain around the bite site, and in more severe cases, systemic symptoms can occur if the infection is not properly treated. Recognizing this bacterium as a common pathogen following animal bites helps guide appropriate antibiotic therapy and management strategies for affected individuals.