Bitten by a cat

What happened: bitten by a cat

A cat that feels cornered can lash out lightning-fast with teeth and claws. The wound often looks small, but that is precisely what makes a cat bite so treacherous. The sharp teeth penetrate deep into the skin, introducing bacteria (often Pasteurella) into the tissue. As a result, a cat bite becomes infected faster and more severely than many other wounds.

The consequences can therefore be severe: a painful, swollen, and red wound, a spreading infection, and in serious cases, hospitalization with intravenous antibiotics. Sometimes permanent damage occurs to tendons or joints, particularly in the case of a bite to the hand, where the tendons lie just below the skin. Scarring and anxiety may also remain. These consequences count fully in a personal injury case. Do you want the bigger picture? Then also read our page on injuries caused by animals.

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Who is liable after a cat bite?

The core of the matter lies in Article 6:179 of the Dutch Civil Code: the owner of an animal is liable for the damage caused by the animal. This is strict liability. This means that the owner is liable even without being at fault. Therefore, you do not need to prove that the owner was negligent. The mere fact that the cat bit you is, in principle, sufficient. The rationale behind this strict liability is that an animal possesses its own unpredictable 'energy' that can escape control – and that the associated risk lies with the person keeping the animal. Whether the cat is normally affectionate is irrelevant in this regard.

That makes your position stronger than in a 'regular' accident, where you do have to prove fault. The 'possessor' is the person keeping the cat for themselves – usually the owner. In practice, the damage is almost always covered by the 's personal liability insurance (AVP) . Almost everyone has such insurance, and pets are covered by default. Therefore, you rarely hold someone personally liable for their wallet, but rather their insurer.

A stray cat or a cat without an owner

The situation becomes more complicated with a stray or feral cat without a clear owner; in such cases, there is often no liable party under Article 6:179 of the Dutch Civil Code. Sometimes, however, a 'keeper' can still be identified who regularly feeds and cares for the cat. This requires a tailored approach – therefore, always have your situation assessed before concluding that nothing is possible.

Cats kept commercially: Article 6:181 of the Dutch Civil Code

If the cat is commercially – for example, in a boarding facility, shelter, or breeding facility – then Article 6:181 of the Dutch Civil Code: not the owner, but the business using the cat is liable. In that case, you claim on the business liability insurance. Here, too, strict liability remains in effect.

Contributory negligence and acceptance of risk

An insurer will not always pay out without question. A frequently used defense is contributory negligence based on Article 6:101 of the Dutch Civil Code. If your own behavior contributed to the damage – for example, because you continued to pet a clearly fearful or aggressive cat – the compensation may be partially reduced. The insurer may also argue that you knowingly accepted the risk, but judges apply this defense with restraint. The mere fact that you petted an unknown cat does not mean that you forfeit your right to compensation. Therefore, never simply agree to a reduction or rejection; have it reviewed first by someone familiar with case law.

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What damages and compensation for pain and suffering can you claim?

The damage following a cat bite is often broader than you might initially think – precisely because of the risk of infection. We distinguish between material and immaterial damage.

Material damage is anything that can be expressed in monetary terms:

• Medical costs: deductible, antibiotics, possible hospitalization, physiotherapy;
• Loss of income if you are temporarily unable to work (for example, due to an infected hand);
• Travel expenses to doctor and hospital;
• Costs for domestic help;
• Damaged clothing.

Non-material damage is and suffering: reimbursement for the pain, shock, and grief. This can amount to a significant sum, especially in the case of a serious infection, permanent symptoms, or scarring. You can find a complete overview on our page about compensation.

Good to know: the costs of legal assistance are themselves also part of your damages. Pursuant to Article 6:96 of the Dutch Civil Code, the liable insurer pays the reasonable costs of legal assistance. Therefore, our assistance is free of charge as long as there is a liable opposing party. Would you like an indication of your total damages? Then use the personal injury calculation tool.

Compensation for pain and suffering for a cat bite

Compensation for pain and suffering is a case-by-case matter; there is no fixed table. In the case of a cat bite, the amount is often underestimated, precisely because the wound appears small. However, a deep infection can result in significant pain, hospitalization, and limitations lasting for weeks. If a tendon or joint in your hand is damaged, this can cause permanent problems that affect your work and hobbies – and this is factored into the compensation for pain and suffering. Scars and a fear of approaching cats also count. Because the consequences of an infection can sometimes only be properly assessed later, it is wise not to settle a claim too early, so that any potential permanent problems are also taken into account.

What should you do after a cat bite?

In the event of a cat bite, acting quickly is especially important due to the risk of infection. Follow this checklist:

• Seek medical help quickly. Go to the GP even for a minor wound – a cat bite becomes infected quickly and often requires antibiotics. Your medical records serve as immediate proof.
• Note down the owner's details. Name, address, and telephone number, plus information about the cat.
• Look for witnesses. Ask bystanders for their contact details.
• Take photos of the wound, and continue to do so as the inflammation develops.
• Keep receipts and supporting documents for all expenses.
• Do not wait too long. In principle, a personal injury claim expires after five years.

Were you unable to take all the steps? Don't worry – even with limited evidence, a strong case can often still be built.

Need an expert after a cat bite?

Insurers like to downplay a cat bite: 'it's just a cat'. That is precisely why it pays to call in an expert. We know that a cat bite can lead to serious damage due to the risk of infection, and we ensure that this damage is fully taken into account.

A personal injury expert ensures correct liability is established, fully substantiated all your claims for damages, and conducts strong negotiations with the insurer. We also take into account consequences that only manifest later, such as permanent complaints regarding a hand or tendon.

And most importantly: because the liable insurer pays our costs pursuant to Article 6:96 of the Dutch Civil Code , our assistance is completely free of charge for you as long as there is a liable opposing party. Feel free to contact us for a no-obligation consultation.