Animal bite or scratch
An animal bite or scratch can range from minor to something that needs quick attention, especially with questions about rabies risk or infection. This visit gets you a clinician's assessment and a clear plan.
1:1 virtual visit with a clinician who can assess your risk and next steps
Insurance accepted, with clear pricing per visit
A care plan built from your full health history
Visit options
We'll check any insurance and show you your options before you book.
Video Visit
$25
Est. or $100 w/o insurance
Chat Visit
$30
w/o insurance
Most insurance accepted
Board-certified clinicians
No hidden fees
Available nationwide
What to expect from an animal bite or scratch visit
1
Share your health story
Tell us what happened, the animal involved, and your symptoms.
2
Meet your clinician
Discuss infection and rabies risk based on your situation.
3
Get your care plan
Leave with treatment, a prescription if appropriate, or guidance on urgent in-person care.
4
Own your health
Follow up if the wound looks infected or doesn't heal well.
All your care in one place. That’s the General Medicine difference.
We help you understand your options, connect you to the right clinicians, manage prescriptions, coordinate any needed evaluations, and keep an eye on your overall health along the way. It’s comprehensive care that looks at the full picture — your goals, your history, your lifestyle — and makes it simple to move forward with confidence.
Is this visit right for your bite or scratch?
Most bites and scratches are minor, but some need a closer look — especially around infection or rabies risk.
The wound looks red, swollen, or increasingly painful
You're not sure if you need a tetanus shot or rabies evaluation
The bite was from an unfamiliar or wild animal
You want guidance on wound care to prevent infection
You have a condition that makes infections riskier for you
What our customers have to say
“I feel like I’m finally on the right path to improving my health with the right support now! It’s so refreshing and reassuring.”
Emerald
“My experience with General Medicine was amazing. The understanding and care that was taken to figure out what is exactly going on with me. I feel like a weight has been lifted off of me.”
Kaylee
“I couldn’t be happier with my experience with General Medicine! They are fast, responsive, kind and knowledgeable. It is much easier, more affordable and faster.”
Nika
Get a clear plan for your bite or scratch
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Frequently asked questions
When does an animal bite need emergency care instead of a video visit?
Deep wounds, heavy bleeding, bites to the face or hands, or any bite from an animal that could carry rabies and can't be observed need in-person or emergency evaluation right away.
How do I know if I need a rabies evaluation?
This depends on the type of animal, whether it can be observed or tested for rabies, and local rabies risk in your area — your clinician will walk through this with you. Your clinician takes rabies risk seriously, since untreated exposure can become life-threatening once symptoms start.
Do I need a tetanus shot?
This depends on the wound and when you last had a tetanus shot — your clinician will assess your risk and refer you for a booster if it's needed.
Will my animal bite need to be reported to authorities?
Yes, in some cases — many states require certain animal bites to be reported to public health or animal control, especially bites from an unknown or unvaccinated animal. Your clinician will let you know if your situation requires a report and handle it directly if so.
Can this visit prescribe antibiotics for my wound?
Yes, if your clinician determines antibiotics are appropriate to prevent or treat infection, particularly for bites that broke the skin or show early signs of infection — your clinician will assess the wound and your risk factors before deciding.
What side effects are associated with antibiotics used for bite wounds?
Digestive upset is the most common side effect. Since animal bites carry a real infection risk, your clinician weighs your allergy history against how deep the bite was and which antibiotic covers that risk best. Your clinician will choose an option that fits your allergy history.