Which antibiotic is recommended for treating cat and human bites?

Augmentin, which is a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, is recommended for treating cat and human bites due to its effectiveness against a broad range of bacteria commonly found in these types of wounds. Cat and human bites can introduce various aerobic and anaerobic bacteria into the wound, including Pasteurella spp. from cat bites and different skin flora from human bites, which may include Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species.

The amoxicillin component provides good coverage against these bacteria, while clavulanic acid protects against beta-lactamase-producing organisms, which are often resistant to standard antibiotics. The combination thus addresses both the expected flora involved in bite wounds and any potential resistant strains, making it the preferred choice for treating such infections.

Furthermore, Augmentin's pharmacokinetic properties allow it to reach effective concentrations in soft tissues, which is crucial for wound healing and infection control.