About Cat Scratch Fever

Overview

Cat scratch fever is also referred to as "cat scratch disease." It is caused by the bartonella bacteria. The disease lives up to its name as it is contracted from the saliva, bite or scratch of a feline. The cat must first be infected with bartonella to infect a human. According to the CDC, the disease is generally not harmful to healthy humans except those who may have compromised or suppressed immune systems, such as those with HIV or AIDS.

Causes

Most cases of cat scratch fever are contracted through a simple scratch from the infected kitten or cat. The bartonella bacteria is found all over the world and each year around 22,000 cases are diagnosed--mainly among children who play with cats. Fleas are the main way the disease gets spread. The bacteria lives in the saliva of cats and kittens, but it does not affect the feline's health. Cat scratch fever tends to infect cats under 1 year old.

Symptoms

Most of the time symptoms do not begin to appear until a week or two after the victim has been scratched. In many cases, the scratch has already healed and then a new bump appears in the same location. The bump may resemble a small bug bite similar to a flea bite. The bite is called an inoculation lesion. At the same time, swollen lymph nodes close to the bite area may be present. Another symptom may be that the skin area around the lymph nodes may become red, inflamed and swell. Occasionally, those lymph nodes will drain pus or a clear fluid. Other symptoms may include a mild fever, headache, rash, sore throat and general malaise.

Treatment

Medical care staff will likely conduct a series of tests to confirm cat scratch fever. This may include blood tests and a microscopic examination of lymph node fluid. An antibiotic will likely be prescribed especially if there are signs of infection. Warm compresses may be placed on painful, swollen lymph nodes. The cat will have to be isolated from people and taken to the veterinarian for treatment, further instructions and care. Cat scratch fever is not contagious between humans. Most people can return to school or work as soon as they feel well enough to go.

Complications

For serious cases of cat scratch fever that can occur in some people, especially those with weakened immune systems, symptoms can be worse or lead to further complications. Symptoms include infections of the lungs, joints, liver and spleen. A rare condition called Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome can cause eye infections or redness of the eye or eyelid. Inflammation of the brain is also a rare but serious complication that can cause seizures.

Prevention

Cat scratch fever is rare and not every cat gets it and not every person exposed to the disease contracts it. Most indoor cats that receive routine veterinary care and are on flea preventive will likely never catch it. Teaching children to stay away from stray cats or unfamiliar cats that may scratch or bite will help to prevent transmission of cat scratch fever.