How to Avoid Cat Scratch Fever

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By Gardengates
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How to avoid cat scratch fever

Cat-Scratch Fever has been a line in songs and often used as a joke. But there really IS a cat-scratch fever and it isn’t all that uncommon. Here's a little information about cat scratch fever and how to avoid it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Cat scratch fever is a benign disease most often carried by kittens rather than cats. It is caused by a bacteria (either Bartonella henselae or Bartonella clarridgeiae) and presents as a swelling or lesion at the site of a scratch or bite. There is some disagreement on how the bacteria is introduced since some tests show blood from the infected animal has to be involved as saliva and skin don't carry the bacteria. Other experts feel cat scratch fever can be spread directly from claws or licking. Ticks and fleas can also carry the disease.
Step 2

Signs of cat-scratch fever are a redness and swelling of the area affected, swollen glands, headaches, a slight fever and chills. Symptoms can be seen within a week, but can also take months to manifest. The disease is considered 'self-limiting' which means it will go away on its own over time. Some people heal quickly and others may take months. There is not likely to be any long-lasting damage from cat scratch fever, and most people affected are under 21, so watch your children with cats.
Step 3

The most logical way to avoid cat-scratch fever is to avoid getting scratched in the first place. Try not to play roughly with cats and kittens. Keep claws clipped or glue on nail protectors to your cat’s claws. The disease is carried most frequently by only young cats and the cats or kittens will show no sign of the disease themselves. If you or your child does get scratched, wash the wound well with soap. Controlling fleas is also important.
Step 4

If you suspect you or your child has cat scratch fever have your doctor check it out. The disease is easily treatable with Azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, or other antibiotics.
Step 5

For more information on how to avoid cat scratch fever, please see the Resources listed below.

Comments

nonar21 said

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on 10/30/2009 I actually had this when I was young. I stayed in the hospital for a few weeks, and they removed a large portion of my glands from my leg. I was only 7 but remember it clearly.