Bitten by a rat? What to do and when to get help

Fact-checked against 3 sources · Updated 20 September 2026

First aid straight after a bite

The NHS advises the following steps after an animal bite:

1. Clean the wound gently with soap and warm water.
2. Gently squeeze the wound so it bleeds slightly, unless it is already bleeding.
3. If it is bleeding heavily, press a clean, dry dressing or cloth firmly on it to stop the bleeding.
4. Pat the wound dry and cover it with a clean dressing.
5. Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and swelling. Children under 16 should not take aspirin.

The BPCA adds that you should wash the wound thoroughly even if the skin hasn’t been broken, because rat bites can be deep, and then seek medical advice.

When to get help

Get help from NHS 111 if you have been bitten and, according to the NHS:

• you think there may be objects like teeth, hair or dirt in the wound;
• the bite is hot, swollen, painful or red;
• you have a high temperature or feel hot, cold or shivery;
• fluid is leaking from the bite, or it smells unpleasant;
• you were bitten on your hands, feet, face or head;
• you have not had a tetanus vaccine in the last 10 years.

Go to A&E if the wound is large or deep, or you cannot stop the bleeding. Do not drive yourself: ask someone to drive you or call 999.

A doctor or nurse will clean the wound, may close it with stitches, sticky strips or glue, may give you antibiotics to prevent infection, and will check whether you need protection against tetanus and rabies.

Are rat bites dangerous?

Rats can carry bacteria and other germs, so a bite that breaks the skin can become infected. Rats can also spread leptospirosis (Weil’s disease), though the NHS says it is very rare to get that from bites and that it is rare in the UK overall. Read more in our guide to whether rats are dangerous.

How to avoid being bitten

Rats generally avoid people. According to the BPCA, bites are not common, but a cornered rat will often spring at a threat and bite to defend itself.

• Don’t corner a rat or try to catch one with your hands.
• Leave live rats to a professional. If you find a rat trapped in the house, keep pets and children away and call a technician.
• Wear thick gloves when clearing sheds, compost and undergrowth where rats may live.
• Use bait and traps carefully and keep them in secured stations, out of reach of children and pets. See our guide to rat poison.

Rat bite questions

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