Cat scratch disease (CSD), also known as cat scratch fever or Bartonellosis, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. While it’s relatively uncommon, CSD can be a serious concern for individuals who have been scratched, bitten, or licked by an infected cat. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the symptoms, causes, and prevention of cat scratch disease.
Symptoms of Cat Scratch Disease
The symptoms of cat scratch disease can vary widely from person to person, and may not appear immediately after exposure. In some cases, symptoms may not appear at all. However, common symptoms of CSD include:
- Fever: A low-grade fever is one of the most common symptoms of CSD.
- Fatigue: Many individuals with CSD experience feelings of exhaustion and lack of energy.
- Headache: Headaches are also a common symptom of CSD, often accompanied by fever and fatigue.
- Skin Lesions: At the site of the scratch, bite, or lick, a small, red, raised bump may appear. This may eventually develop into a sore or pustule.
- Lymph Node Swelling: Swelling of the lymph nodes near the site of the scratch or bite is a characteristic symptom of CSD.
- Other Symptoms: In more severe cases, CSD can cause additional symptoms such as joint pain, muscle aches, and even neurological symptoms like confusion or seizures.
Causes of Cat Scratch Disease
Cat scratch disease is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, which is commonly found in the saliva and claws of infected cats. Kittens are more likely to be infected than adult cats, and the infection is often transmitted through scratches, bites, or even licks from an infected cat. In some cases, CSD can also be transmitted through fleas or ticks that have fed on an infected cat.
Prevention of Cat Scratch Disease
While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of cat scratch disease, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of exposure:
- Wash Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling or playing with your cat, especially if you’ve been scratched or bitten.
- Avoid Rough Play: Avoid engaging in rough play with your cat that could lead to scratches or bites.
- Flea and Tick Control: Keep your cat flea- and tick-free to reduce the risk of exposure to Bartonella henselae.
- Vaccinate Your Cat: While there is no vaccine available for humans to prevent CSD, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating cats against Bartonella henselae to reduce the risk of infection.
- Supervise Children: Children are at increased risk of exposure to CSD, so supervise them closely when they’re interacting with cats.
Conclusion
Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, which is commonly found in the saliva and claws of infected cats. While the symptoms of CSD can vary widely, common symptoms include fever, fatigue, headache, skin lesions, and lymph node swelling. To reduce your risk of exposure to CSD, wash your hands thoroughly after handling your cat, avoid rough play, keep your cat flea- and tick-free, and supervise children closely when they’re interacting with cats.
