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What Is Cat Scratch Fever?
For many, the term "cat scratch fever" might recall Ted Nugent's '70s rock hit. However, cat scratch fever is a real medical condition known as bartonellosis. The culprit behind this illness is the bacterium Bartonella henselae, typically transmitted to humans through a cat scratch and can cause fever.
Bartonella henselae is prevalent among cats, particularly young cats, and kittens that have fleas. While other animals like dogs and rabbits can also be carriers, most cats that come into contact with the bacteria do not get sick. Nonetheless, cat scratches or bites can pose a health risk to humans, potentially leading to cat scratch disease.
Causes And Transmission Of Cat Scratch Fever
Cat scratch fever is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. Cats become infected with this bacterium when they are bitten by fleas that carry it or when flea droppings enter their wounds.
When cats groom fight with other cats, or themselves scratch the infected flea dirt can get trapped under their claws or teeth. The bacteria can be transmitted if a cat scratches or bites a human hard enough to break the skin.
The bacteria can also spread through cat saliva if it enters an open wound or the whites of your eyes. In rare cases, people can contract it directly from flea or tick bites. However, cat scratch disease is not contagious between humans and cannot be passed from person to person.
Cat scratch fever is most common in kittens and stray cats, as they are more likely to have fleas. The bacteria is also more prevalent in warmer climates, where fleas thrive.
Symptoms Of Cat Scratch Fever
Most cats infected with cat scratch fever are asymptomatic, meaning they appear normal and show no signs of illness. However, in rare cases, a cat might exhibit symptoms such as:
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Temporary fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite
- Reproductive issues
- Bacterial heart infection
It's important to note that while most cats do not appear sick or show signs of disease, humans are more likely to experience symptoms of cat scratch fever. The most commonly reported symptoms in humans include:
- A pustule at the site of the scratch
- Fever
- Enlarged lymph nodes
Diagnose Of Cat Scratch Fever
Cats are rarely tested for cat scratch fever since most infected cats do not show any symptoms. Occasionally, a cat may be tested if it is going to be a blood donor.
Veterinarians typically make a presumptive diagnosis based on the cat's exposure history. If testing is recommended, repeated tests may increase the chances of detecting the bacteria while the cat is shedding it in its blood.
What To Do If Your Cat Is Diagnosed With Cat Scratch Fever
If a doctor diagnoses you or a family member with cat scratch fever, it's important to remember that while cats are likely the source of the infection, they rarely get sick. Most cats' immune systems manage the infection without needing veterinary intervention.
Even though most cat scratches do not result in cat scratch fever, cleaning any cat scratches or bites is essential. If a cat scratches you or your child and develops a bump at the scratch site, followed by swollen lymph nodes or a fever within 1-3 weeks, consult your medical provider for further advice.
Cat Scratch Fever Treatment
Cat scratch fever seldom requires treatment. A cat's immune system will usually handle the infection without intervention.
In the rare instances where a cat becomes ill from the disease, antibiotics may be used for treatment. This is mainly considered when the cat is living with immunocompromised individuals. The preferred treatment is antibiotic therapy for a minimum of three weeks. However, treating cat scratch fever can be challenging, as Bartonella bacteria often develop resistance to antibiotics.
Prevention Of Cat Scratch Fever
The most effective way to prevent cat scratch fever is to wash your hands frequently, particularly after petting or playing with your cat. Avoid rough play and keep your face and any open wounds away from your cat to reduce the risk of infection. If you get scratched or bitten, thoroughly wash the area with antibacterial soap and fresh running water. It's also recommended to avoid contact with stray cats, as they are more likely to harbor the bacteria.
Regular flea treatment for your cat is essential for prevention, as it significantly reduces the risk of your cat coming into contact with the bacteria. Because the bacteria is more common in kittens, consider adopting an older cat if you have a weakened immune system.
Cat scratch fever is rare and seldom fatal. You can effectively prevent the disease by maintaining a regular flea treatment schedule and practicing good hygiene.
