Remember that famous rock ‘n roll tune, “Cat Scratch Fever”? Well, there really is something called cat scratch fever, or also known as cat scratch disease.
This is a bacterial infection that is spread by cats and it happens when an infected cat licks someone’s open wound or bites or scratches you hard enough to break the skin. According to the CDC, catch scratch disease is caused by a bacteria called Bartonella henselae and as many as 40% of cats carry this bacteria at some time in their lives although they show no symptoms. It’s important to note that kittens are more commonly carriers.
Here’s some information on cat scratch fever to add to your pet health arsenal.
How Cats Get Sick
Fleas are the culprit behind the bacteria responsible for cat scratch disease. Flea bites and flea dirt get into any wound your cat may have. Then they scratch at the fleas and pick up infected flea droppings in their claws and teeth and pass it on to humans when playing. Another method of infection is when cats fight and one of them is infected.
Human Complications
The CDC confirms that, for the most part, complications from cat scratch disease include mild inflammation. But, occasionally, this bacteria can affect the brain, eyes or heart. The more serious issues tend to appear in children younger than 5 and those with weakened immune systems.
Prevention
For humans, curtail rough housing with your cat to avoid scratches or bites. If you have an open wound, don’t allow your cat to lick it.
If you find that you have a cat scratch or bite that has punctured your skin, wash it thoroughly with warm water and soap right away.
For your cat, keep her claws trimmed and apply a topical flea preventive once a month. Use a fine flea comb on your cat frequently to check for flea dirt in her fur. Also, make sure to bring your cat to the vet for a checkup at least once a year.
Cat scratch fever is treatable and even preventable by taking some simple precautions.
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