How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Cat Scratch - Triage

Audience: adult

Cat scratches can cause mild skin irritation or, in some cases, lead to infections that require medical attention. A telemedicine visit can help assess your symptoms, provide advice on wound care, and determine if further treatment is needed. Preparing for your virtual appointment will help you get the most out of the visit. You will likely be asked about the timing and severity of your symptoms, any signs of infection, and your overall health. Telemedicine is often suitable for initial evaluation of cat scratches, especially if the wound looks minor and you have no serious symptoms. However, if you notice worsening redness, swelling, fever, or other concerning signs, you may need in-person care. This guide will help you understand when telemedicine is appropriate, how to prepare for your visit, and what to expect afterward.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Increasing redness, swelling, or warmth around the scratch area — seek urgent medical evaluation.
• Fever or chills developing after the scratch — contact healthcare immediately.
• Pus or fluid draining from the wound or severe pain — get in-person care promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of minor cat scratches.
• Advice on wound cleaning and care.
• Evaluation of mild symptoms without systemic signs.
• Guidance on when to seek further care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Deep or heavily bleeding wounds.
• Signs of severe infection or systemic illness.
• Need for wound cleaning or treatment that requires physical procedures.
• Emergency situations like severe allergic reactions.

What to Expect During Your Telemedicine Visit

During your telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about how and when you were scratched, any symptoms like pain, redness, or swelling, and whether you have a fever or feel unwell. You may be asked to show the affected area using your camera. The provider will guide you on cleaning the wound and may recommend treatments or further evaluation if needed.

When to Use Telemedicine for a Cat Scratch

Telemedicine is often appropriate if the scratch is minor, without deep wounds or heavy bleeding. It is useful for getting advice on wound care, checking for early signs of infection, and deciding if you need antibiotics or in-person care. If you have no severe symptoms and your immune system is healthy, a virtual visit can be a convenient first step.

Signs That Require In-Person Medical Care

Seek in-person care if you notice:

These signs may indicate an infection that needs prompt treatment.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your appointment, clean the scratch gently with soap and water. Have a clean cloth or bandage ready if needed. Make sure your device is charged and has a good internet connection. Prepare to describe your symptoms clearly and have a way to show the affected area on camera. Write down any questions you want to ask.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the care instructions provided by your healthcare provider. This may include wound cleaning, applying antibiotic ointment, or taking prescribed medication. Monitor the scratch for any changes or worsening symptoms. If your condition does not improve or you develop new symptoms, seek in-person medical care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Clean the scratch gently with soap and water before the visit.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet.
• Find a well-lit, quiet space for the appointment.
• Have a clean cloth or bandage ready in case you need to show the wound.
• Be prepared to describe how and when the scratch occurred and your symptoms.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the wound care instructions given by your healthcare provider.
• Apply any recommended ointments or medications as directed.
• Watch for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, or fever.
• Keep the wound clean and dry as advised.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if symptoms worsen or do not improve.
• Seek in-person care immediately if red flags appear.

FAQs

Can I treat a cat scratch at home without seeing a doctor?

Minor cat scratches can often be treated at home by cleaning the area with soap and water and keeping it covered. However, if you notice signs of infection like redness, swelling, or fever, you should seek medical advice.

When should I be worried about a cat scratch?

You should be concerned if the scratch becomes increasingly red, swollen, painful, or starts to drain pus. Also, if you develop a fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes, seek medical care promptly.

Can telemedicine providers prescribe antibiotics for cat scratch infections?

Telemedicine providers may prescribe antibiotics if they assess that an infection is present and it is safe to do so without an in-person exam. However, if the infection appears severe, they may refer you for in-person evaluation.

What information should I provide during my telemedicine visit?

Be ready to describe how the scratch happened, when it occurred, your symptoms, any changes in the wound, your medical history, allergies, and current medications.

Is it safe to show my wound on camera during a telemedicine visit?

Yes, showing your wound on camera helps the provider assess its condition. Make sure you are in a private and comfortable setting to maintain your privacy.

Sources

1. Cat Scratch Disease — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Cat Scratch Disease: Clinical Features and Diagnosis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Cat Scratch Disease — Mayo Clinic.
4. Cat Scratch Disease — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, seek prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional in person.