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Cat Scratch Fever.
Characterized by a swelling of the lymph nodes, Cat Scratch Disease is a bacterial infection that results from none other than the household cat. Bites and scratches spread the infection, but the disease is also transmitted through the tender lick of your precious feline. Cat Scratch Disease is not transmitted from person to person. The only way that humans contract the infection is through the scratch or bite of an infected feline. To become infected with the illness, you don’t even have to own a cat. Just coming in contact with an infected animal, (especially kittens) will pass along the disease.
Causes of Cat Scratch Disease
It is the bacterium called Bartonella henselae that causes Cat Scratch Disease, which occurs around the world with a higher incidence seen during the fall and winter seasons. On a yearly basis, the United States alone will see around 22,000 cases of the illness with the majority of the infected under the age of 21. It is believed that Cat Scratch Disease often affects the younger crowd because they are most likely to get scratched or bitten by a cat.In cats, fleas spread the Cat Scratch Disease bacteria to felines, which then thrives in saliva. The bacteria may stay with the cat for months and does not cause sickness or any harm other than to humans. Some cat professionals believe that almost all cats will become infected with the bacteria at least once in their lifetime. The disease most often occurs in cats that are less than 1 year old.
Signs and Symptoms
The first sign of Cat Scratch Disease is often dismissed as a pesky insect bite. A blister or small bump will arise, changing its appearance over the course of a few days. This occurs after receiving a scratch or bite from a cat, signifying the entry point of the bacteria. The hands, arms, head or scalp are the most infected parts of the human body. Pain does not usually accompany these blisters.
Often, within a couple of weeks, one or more of the lymph nodes located close to the site of infection will become swollen or tender. These glands represent the immune system and when they become swollen, there is an issue with your body that calls for attention. For example, if an infected cat bites you on the arm, the lymph nodes located in the elbow or armpit will show signs of infection.
Infected areas become red and warm to the touch. Pus drainage from the lymph nodes may also occur. But, in most cases, swollen lymph nodes are the main symptom of the disease. Additional signs of Cat Scratch Disease include loss of appetite, rash, sore throat, fever and fatigue. Overall, you will most likely feel quite under the weather when infected.
Treating Cat Scratch Disease
Certain laboratory tests will reveal the presence of Cat Scratch Disease, such as skin and blood analysis. While most cases do not require treatment, severely infected lymph nodes may need excess fluid drainage that is completed with a needle or syringe. Antibiotics are also prescribed to treat the infection. There are also a few home remedies to consider for Cat Scratch Disease including warm compresses to sore lymph nodes and acetaminophen products (Tylenol) or ibuprofen options, such as Advil and Motrin.
Preventive Measures
When it comes to preventing Cat Scratch Disease, don’t worry about sending the family pet away. Cats infected with the disease do not have to be put down. A simple visit to the veterinarian will soon solve the problem. In the larger scheme of things, the illness is quite rare and usually brings about mild effects.
To reduce the chances of contracting the disease, make sure that you and your children do not pet or approach stray cats. Also, teach young ones not to roughhouse with pets to avoid being scratched or bitten. After each time you handle or play with a cat, it is advisable to wash your hands. It is also suggested that you immediately apply soap and water to any scratches or bites. Keeping your home flea-free will also lessen the risk of contracting Cat Scratch Disease.
