Cat Disease, Cat Scratch Fever.

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 tha 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.

Questions About Cat Scratch Fever?