If a mouse or rat bite breaks the skin, clean the wound and seek medical assessment. This is general first-aid information; a clinician determines treatment.
First steps
Wash the wound with soap and warm running water. If it is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth or dressing. After cleaning, gently dry and cover it with a clean dressing. Do not pour chemicals into a deep wound.
When is urgent medical help needed?
Seek urgent medical care immediately if the wound is large or deep, or the bleeding will not stop. Do not wait for a pest-control specialist to arrive.
What should a clinician assess?
Explain when and where the bite happened and the animal species, if known. Medical assessment is especially important for bites on the hand, foot, face or head, or if swelling, redness, discharge or fever develops. A clinician will assess infection risk, tetanus vaccination status and any preventive treatment needed. Do not start antibiotics on your own.
How to avoid another encounter
Do not try to catch a rodent with bare hands. Keep children and pets away from the affected area. After addressing medical needs, arrange an inspection of rodent activity and entry routes.
CSMG provides rodent control in premises. Read our rodent-control questions and answers or arrange a property assessment.
Medical information source: NHS — Animal and human bites.