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ALBUQUERQUE CAT ATTACK ATTORNEY
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What is a Cat Attack?
A cat attack refers to a situation where a domestic animal, specifically a cat, exhibits aggressive behavior towards a person, resulting in physical harm or injury.
Around 400,000 people seek medical treatment for cat bites and scratches in the United States each year. These incidents often occur during play or defensive behavior. [1]
It is important for victims of cat attacks to seek immediate medical care, as cat bites and scratches can lead to infections and other complications if not properly treated. Animal control officers may also become involved, especially if there is a pattern of aggressive behavior from the cat.
Types of Cat Attacks
Cat attacks can occur in various situations, leading to injuries that may require medical treatment and potential legal consequences.
Interestingly, cat attacks are more commonly directed at women and children. [2]
Aggressive Behavior
Aggressive behavior in cats can manifest in various ways during an attack. When a cat feels threatened or provoked, it may exhibit defensive aggression in an attempt to protect itself.
The hissing and growling are common signs of aggression in cats, indicating their discomfort or fear. These vocalizations serve as a way to warn off potential threats and establish boundaries.
Aggressive behavior in cats can be triggered by various factors, such as fear, pain, territoriality, or redirected aggression.
Cats may become aggressive if they feel their territory is being invaded or if they are in pain due to an injury or illness. They can also exhibit redirected aggression, where they may attack another animal or person if they are unable to access the source of their frustration.
Unprovoked Attacks
Unprovoked cat attacks can occur unexpectedly and without warning. These attacks are characterized by the cat launching a sudden offensive without any apparent trigger or provocation.
Unprovoked cat attacks can manifest in various forms, such as biting, scratching, hissing, growling, and lunging. It may be triggered by fear, pain, or redirected aggression.
Despite popular belief, most cat attacks are not provoked but rather a response to perceived threats or fear. [3]
Defending Territory Attacks
Defending territory attacks are a common type of aggression exhibited by cats when they feel their territory is under threat or invasion. In these instances, cats may become aggressive and attack intruders, whether they are unfamiliar people or animals encroaching upon their space.
Injuries Associated With Cat Attacks
Cat attacks can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from mild scratches to severe lacerations. When a cat feels threatened or provoked, it may respond with aggressive behavior, potentially causing harm to the individuals involved.
- Scratches and Lacerations: One of the most common injuries associated with cat attacks is scratches and lacerations. Cats have sharp claws that can easily penetrate the skin, leaving deep cuts that may require medical treatment. These wounds can become infected if not properly cleaned and cared for.
- Puncture Wounds: Puncture wounds are another type of injury that frequently occurs during cat attacks. These wounds are often caused by a cat’s teeth and can be deep and narrow, making them susceptible to infection. Prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent complications.
- Infections: Infections from cat bites or scratches are a serious concern. Cats carry bacteria in their mouths and claws that can lead to infections in humans. These infections can cause redness, swelling, pain, and even fever. Seeking medical treatment and appropriate antibiotics is important to prevent the infection from spreading.
- Cat Scratch Disease (CSD): CSD is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans through cat scratches or bites. Symptoms of CSD include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. It is essential to seek medical care if you suspect you may have contracted CSD.
Cat bites have a higher chance of getting infected than dog bites due to the nature of a cat’s teeth, which are sharper and more prone to penetrating the skin deeply. [4]
Other injuries that can occur due to cat attacks include allergic reactions, nerve and tendon damage, psychological trauma, scarring and disfigurement, secondary infections, exposure to rabies, joint and muscle injuries, tetanus risk, blood loss, and eye injuries.
While rare, cat bites can lead to serious health complications, including the transmission of bacteria such as Pasteurella multocida and Bartonella henselae, which can cause severe infections or diseases. [5]
Cat Attack Compensation
Being the victim of a cat attack can be a traumatic experience. In addition to the physical injuries that can result from these attacks, victims may also suffer emotional distress and financial burdens due to medical expenses and other related costs. The following are different reasons for which cat attack victims can claim compensation.
Medical Expenses
After a cat attack, victims may incur various types of medical expenses. These expenses can include veterinary care, hospital treatment, medical team services, post-exposure treatment, and any necessary additional medical expenses.
In the US, between 10 to 20% of cat bites require hospitalization for treatment and subsequent monitoring for infections. [6]
Veterinary care is often necessary following a cat attack. This can include examinations, x-rays, medications, and surgeries to address any injuries caused by the attack. Depending on the severity of the injuries, the costs can quickly add up.
Hospital treatment may be required for more severe injuries sustained during a cat attack. This can include emergency room visits, overnight stays, surgeries, and ongoing medical care. The expenses associated with hospital treatment can be substantial, especially if the victim requires specialized care.
The average cost of medical treatment for a cat bite is estimated to be between $300 and $2,000. [7]
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for pain and suffering in a cat attack injury case can provide financial relief and acknowledgment for the physical and emotional distress experienced by the victim.
Pain and suffering refer to the physical pain, emotional trauma, mental anguish, and reduced quality of life resulting from the incident.
Whether through an insurance settlement or a personal injury lawsuit, evidence must be gathered, such as medical records and witness statements, to support your claim and negotiate a fair compensation amount.
How Can an Albuquerque Cat Attack Lawyer Help Me?
If you have been the victim of a cat attack in Albuquerque, you may be wondering how a cat attack lawyer can help you. The following are ways by which our experienced Albuquerque cat attack lawyers can provide you with the legal guidance and support you need during this challenging time.
Investigating the Incident and Determining Liability
At Goldberg & Loren, we understand the impact a cat attack can have on a victim and their overall well-being. That’s why we are dedicated to thoroughly investigating incidents and determining liability to provide the best possible legal representation for injured cat attack victims.
Our experienced team will gather essential evidence, such as photographs of the scene, the cat involved, and the victim’s injuries. We will also obtain relevant medical records and reports to support the claim for compensation.
Our goal is to provide comprehensive support and advocacy to help you seek the compensation you deserve if you have been the victim of a cat attack.
In some cases, cat owners may face legal consequences if their pets have exhibited dangerous propensities or if they have neglected their duty of care. [8]
Evaluating Damages and Injuries Caused by a Cat Attack
When you choose us as your legal advocates, we will thoroughly evaluate the damages and injuries caused by the cat attack to determine the compensation you may be entitled to.
We will meticulously assess your medical expenses, including hospital treatments, post-exposure treatments, and veterinary care, to ensure they are included in the recoverable damages.
We will strive to secure noneconomic damages on your behalf, covering pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any loss of enjoyment of life you may have experienced.
Our priority is to provide the comprehensive support and legal expertise you need to seek the compensation you deserve as a cat attack victim.
Dealing With Insurance Companies During Negotiations
After a cat attack, dealing with insurance companies during negotiations for compensation can be a complex and challenging process. We help our clients understand the steps involved, potential limitations, and considerations when negotiating with insurance carriers, such as homeowners insurance.
During negotiations, insurance companies may attempt to minimize compensation by disputing liability, questioning the severity of the injuries, or offering low settlement amounts. We provide strong legal advocates who counter these tactics and fight for fair and just compensation.
Have you been a victim of a cat attack in Albuquerque? You may be entitled to compensation.
At Goldberg & Loren law firm, we represent victims of cat attacks and fight for their rights. Our experienced team of Albuquerque personal injury lawyers is dedicated to helping you recover damages.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our Albuquerque cat attack lawyers. We are ready to fight for you and ensure you receive the compensation you need to heal and move forward. Don’t wait; take action now!
Sources
[1] Cat Bites May Lead to Infections: Treatment and When to Get Help. (n.d.). Cat Bites May Lead to Infections: Treatment and When to Get Help. https://www.healthline.com/health/cat-bite.
[2] Incidence of and risk factors for cat bites: a first step in prevention and treatment of feline aggression – PubMed. (2007, June 1). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfms.2006.11.001.
[3] (2023, March 28). Why Do Pet Cats Attack Their Owners? PetHelpful. Retrieved August 17, 2023, from https://pethelpful.com/cats/cat-danger.
[4] Dog, cat and bat bites. (n.d.). Dog, Cat and Bat Bites – Treatment, Symptoms and Infections | Healthdirect. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dog-cat-and-bat-bites.
[5] Zoonotic Disease: What Can I Catch from My Cat? (2017, October 4). Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/zoonotic-disease-what-can-i-catch-my-cat.
[6] Savu, A. N., Schoenbrunner, A. R., Politi, R., & Janis, J. E. (2021, September 9). Practical Review of the Management of Animal Bites. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000003778.
[7] Bite Wounds in Cats – Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost. (n.d.). Bite Wounds in Cats – Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost. https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/bite-wounds.
[8] J.D., C. B. (2022, September 15). Strict Liability: Legal Definition & Examples. Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/personal-injury/strict-liability/.
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
4801 Lang Ave NE UNIT 110,
Albuquerque, NM 87109
(505) 317-5813
If you or a loved one have been attacked by a cat in Albuquerque and are seeking legal recourse, reach out to Goldberg & Loren for assistance. We're here to address all your inquiries and provide you with the necessary information and guidance.
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