Let’s be honest, most of us don’t wake up thinking, “I might get bitten by something today.” But the truth is, animal bites happen way more often than you’d expect, and not just in the wild or on a hiking trail. They can happen in your living room, your backyard, or during what was supposed to be a chill walk around the neighborhood.
From dogs that get a little too protective to cats that go from cuddly to chaotic in five seconds flat, bites are a real part of life for millions of Americans each year. And yes, even snakes are in the mix.
At The Schiller Kessler Group, we took a closer look at the data behind animal attacks, and let’s just say, the numbers don’t lie. So, let’s talk about who (or what) is doing the biting, why it’s happening, and how you can keep yourself and your family safe.
The (Furry) Elephant in the Room: Dog Bites
We love our dogs. They’re goofy, loyal, and practically family. But even the sweetest pup can bite if they’re scared, startled, or feel like they need to protect their territory.
Here’s the reality: 4.5 million dog bites happen every year in the U.S., and around 800,000 of those send people straight to the doctor or emergency room. That’s not exactly rare.
And it’s not always strangers getting bitten; many people are injured by dogs they know. Kids under 10 are especially at risk, with the 5 to 9 age group being the most likely to get bitten. Young children don’t always recognize when a dog is saying “back off,” which is why supervision and education are key.
Fun (but kind of scary) fact: homes with two or more dogs are five times more likely to have someone get bitten. So, if you’ve got a full house of pups, extra caution goes a long way.
Cats: Cute, But Don’t Push Your Luck
Cat bites might not make headlines like dog attacks do, but don’t sleep on them; they’re sneaky and serious. Cats have sharp, needle-like teeth that puncture deep, and their bites are twice as likely to get infected compared to dog bites.
Every year, around 400,000 people in the U.S. are bitten by cats. And while most bites aren’t deadly, they often land people in the ER with painful swelling, redness, or infections like cellulitis.
Most cat bites happen during play or when the cat feels overstimulated (read: you pet them for one second too long). Warning signs include a flicking tail, pinned-back ears, and the classic death glare. Pay attention to those cues unless you enjoy surprise bloodshed.
Snakes: Less Common, But Still a Threat
Unless you live in the woods or work outdoors, you probably don’t worry much about snakes. But they’re out there, and when they bite, it’s serious business.
About 45,000 people get bitten by snakes in the U.S. each year, and 7,000 to 8,000 of those involve venomous species like rattlesnakes and copperheads. States like Texas, North Carolina, and Florida top the list for snake encounters.
Snake bites often happen when someone unknowingly steps too close or tries to move a snake (don’t do that). And while only a handful of people die from venomous bites each year, many experience severe swelling, tissue damage, or long hospital stays.
So yeah, snakes may be less in-your-face than dogs or cats, but when they show up, they don’t play.
Where It Happens Most
Dog and snake bites aren’t randomly scattered across the U.S.; certain places see more than their fair share.
- Dog bites are more common in big cities and states with high pet ownership. Think California, Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Illinois.
- Snake bites are most common in the South and Southeast, where warmer climates support a range of venomous species.
How to Avoid Getting Bitten (Without Living in Fear)
Here’s the good news: most bites are preventable if you understand animal behavior and set boundaries.
To avoid dog bites:
- Don’t pet unfamiliar dogs—especially if they’re eating, sleeping, or with puppies.
- Teach your kids to respect animals and recognize warning signs (like growling or a stiff body).
- Always supervise young children around dogs.
To avoid cat bites:
- Don’t overdo it when petting. Cats get overstimulated fast.
- Watch for warning signs like a flicking tail or flattened ears.
- Skip roughhousing and never force interaction if your cat’s not feeling it.
To avoid snake bites:
- Stick to trails when hiking and wear boots in grassy or wooded areas.
- Don’t try to handle a snake, no matter how “chill” it looks.
- If you see one, calmly back away. Fast moves can trigger a strike.
What to Do If You Get Bitten
First things first, don’t ignore it. Even a minor bite can turn ugly fast if it gets infected.
Here’s what to do:
- Clean the wound gently with soap and warm water.
- Apply a sterile bandage.
- Get medical attention, especially if the bite breaks the skin or involves a wild or unknown animal.
If it’s a snake bite, skip the DIY venom tricks. Stay calm, limit movement, and get to the ER immediately.
Bottom Line: Respect Animals, Know the Risks
We’re not here to make you afraid of your pets or cancel your next camping trip. But a little awareness goes a long way. Most bites happen because we miss or ignore the signs, and the animal reacts the only way it knows how.
By giving animals space, paying attention to their body language, and taking a few simple precautions, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe from unnecessary injuries.
And if an animal bite does lead to serious harm, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. At The Schiller Kessler Group, we’re here to help you understand your rights, explore your legal options, and get the support you need to heal and move forward.
