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Cat-scratch disease is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, which is carried by cats and transmitted to humans through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva. Symptoms include skin irritation, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease is not contagious between humans and is typically mild, with most cases resolving on their own. Prevention measures include avoiding rough play with cats, washing hands after contact, and keeping cats and homes flea-free.
Cat-scratch disease, also known as cat-scratch fever, is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Bartonella henselae. Cats are considered a natural reservoir for this particular type of Bartonella, which means they can act as a long-term host for the bacteria and then pass it on to humans. An infected cat can cause cat-scratch disease in humans through bites or scratches. A human could also become infected if the cat’s saliva enters the body through the skin or ruptured membrane.
Cats carrying the bacteria show no signs and up to half of all cats may carry it at some point in their lives. Kittens are more likely to be infected than adult cats. Ticks can also transmit the bacteria, but the vast majority of cases of cat scratch disease are caused by felines.
When an individual has cat-scratch disease, there is usually skin irritation, such as a bump or blister at the site of the injury. Some people may experience fever, fatigue, headache, or swollen lymph nodes. Fewer people with the disease experience symptoms that include chills, abdominal pain, enlarged spleen, back pain, sore throat, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Symptoms can occur anytime from a week to several months after the individual is first infected.
Cat-scratch disease is not contagious from human to human, and most cases are mild and uncomplicated. People who have suppressed immune systems due to HIV or certain cancer treatments are more likely to have complications with an infection. If an individual has had the disease once, they most likely will not get it again.
A doctor will typically diagnose cat-scratch disease with a physical exam and after asking questions about the patient’s recent interactions with cats. Your doctor will probably want to rule out other possible causes of swollen lymph nodes and may do some skin, blood, or culture tests to do so. There is also a specific blood test to determine the presence of the Bartonella hensalae bacterium.
The prognosis for individuals with the disease is typically excellent, particularly for those with healthy immune systems. For many people, the infection goes away on its own without treatment. If you have a more serious infection, a doctor will most likely prescribe antibiotics.
People worried about getting cat scratch disease can take steps to prevent it. Some tips include avoiding rough play with kittens and cats, washing hands thoroughly after play, and taking care to clean up any bites or scratches immediately. There is some evidence that cats could get Bartonella hensalae from flea feces, so keeping a cat and home flea-free could also help prevent infection.
