Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is a bacterial infection spread
by cats. The disease spreads when an infected cat licks a person's open wound,
or bites or scratches a person hard enough to break the surface of the skin.
About three to 14 days after the skin is broken, a mild infection can occur at
the site of the scratch or bite. The infected area may appear swollen and red
with round, raised lesions and can have pus. The infection can feel warm or painful.
A person with CSD may also have a fever, headache, poor appetite, and
exhaustion. Later, the person's lymph nodes closest to the original scratch or
bite can become swollen, tender, or painful.
A person with Cat Scratch Disease. The lymph node nearest
to the location of the scratch is swollen.
Wash cat bites and scratches well with soap and running
water. Do not allow cats to lick your wounds. Contact your doctor if you
develop any symptoms of cat-scratch disease or infection.
CSD is caused by a bacterium called Bartonella henselae.
About 40% of cats carry B. henselae at some time in their lives, although most
cats with this infection show NO signs of illness. Kittens younger than 1 year
are more likely to have B. henselae infection and to spread the germ to people.
Kittens are also more likely to scratch and bite while they play and learn how
to attack prey.
How cats and people become infected
Cats can get infected with B. henselae from flea bites and
flea dirt (droppings) getting into their wounds. By scratching and biting at
the fleas, cats pick up the infected flea dirt under their nails and between
their teeth. Cats can also become infected by fighting with other cats that are
infected. The germ spreads to people when infected cats bite or scratch a
person hard enough to break their skin. The germ can also spread when infected
cats lick at wounds or scabs that you may have.
Serious but rare complications:
People
Although rare, CSD can cause people to have serious
complications. CSD can affect the brain, eyes, heart, or other internal organs.
These rare complications, which may require intensive treatment, are more
likely to occur in children younger than 5 years and people with weakened
immune systems.
Cats
Most cats with B. henselae infection show NO signs of
illness, but on rare occasions this disease can cause inflammation of the
heart—making cats very sick with labored breathing. B. henselae infection may
also develop in the mouth, urinary system, or eyes. Your veterinarian may find
that some of your cat's other organs may be inflamed.
Prevention:
People
Do:
- Wash cat bites and scratches right away with soap and running water.
- Wash your hands with soap and running water after playing with your cat, especially if you live with young children or people with weakened immune systems.
- Since cats less than one year of age are more likely to have CSD and spread it to people, persons with a weakened immune system should adopt cats older than one year of age.
- Play rough with your pets because they may scratch and bite.
- Allow cats to lick your open wounds.
- Pet or touch stray or feral cats.
Cats
Control fleas:
- Keep your cat's nails trimmed.
- Apply a flea product (topical or oral medication) approved by your veterinarian once a month.
- BEWARE: Over-the-counter flea products may not be safe for cats. Check with your veterinarian before applying ANY flea product to make sure it is safe for your cat and your family.
- Check for fleas by using a flea comb on your cat to inspect for flea dirt.
- Control fleas in your home by
- Vacuuming frequently
- Contacting a pest-control agent if necessary
- Protect your cat's health
Schedule routine veterinary health check-ups.
Keep cats indoors to:
- Decrease their contact with fleas
- Prevent them from fighting with stray or potentially infected animals
People
Talk to your doctor about testing and treatments for CSD.
People are only tested for CSD when the disease is severe and the doctor
suspects CSD based on the patient's symptoms. CSD is typically not treated in
otherwise healthy people.
Cats
Talk to your veterinarian about testing and treatments for
your cat. Your veterinarian can tell you whether your cat requires testing or
treatment.

