Associated with cats and fleas, cat scratch disease (CSD) is a bacterial infection caused by scratching or biting them. CSD, or cat scratch fever, is caused by a bacteria called Bartonella henselae, which can be found in saliva from infected cats and fleas. Though CSD is not very common, it can still affect anyone who comes into contact with cats. People with weakened immune systems and children are more likely to contract it.
By scratching, biting, or licking, cats transmit CSD to humans. Through the wound, the bacteria enter the skin, causing inflammation and swelling in the lymph nodes. The bacteria can also affect the eyes, liver, spleen, bones, joints, and brain, among other parts of the body.
Not all cats carry the bacteria, and not all cat scratches or bites cause CSD. However, some factors that increase the risk of getting CSD are:
Owning or interacting with a cat, especially a kitten.
Having a deep or punctured wound from a cat scratch or bite.
Having an open wound that is licked by a cat.
Having a flea or tick bite that is infected with the bacteria.
The symptoms of CSD usually appear within 3 to 10 days after the cat scratch or bite. The most common symptoms are:
A bump or blister at the site of the wound, which may be red, swollen, or pus-filled.
Swollen and tender lymph nodes near the wound, which may last for several weeks or months.
Fever, headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
Some people may have mild or no symptoms at all. However, in rare cases, CSD can cause serious complications, such as:
Eye infection (conjunctivitis) or inflammation (uveitis), which can affect the vision.
Liver or spleen infection (hepatosplenic disease), which can cause abdominal pain, jaundice, or enlarged organs.
Bone or joint infection (osteomyelitis or arthritis), which can cause pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility.
Brain infection (encephalitis or meningitis), which can cause confusion, seizures, or coma.
Blood tests and biopsy results are used to diagnose CSD. CSD is diagnosed based on the history of exposure to cats, the appearance of the wounds, and the lymph nodes. Although blood tests can detect antibodies to the bacteria, they may not be accurate in the early stages of infection. A biopsy can confirm the presence of bacteria in the tissue, but it may require minor surgery.
CSD usually goes away on its own without any specific treatment. However, some people may need antibiotics to prevent or treat complications, particularly if their immune system is weak or they have an infection that is severe. CSD can be treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin, doxycycline, rifampin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
In addition to antibiotics, some home remedies that can help relieve the symptoms of CSD are:
Applying a warm compress or a heating pad to the wound and the lymph nodes to reduce swelling and pain.
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to reduce fever and inflammation.
Drinking plenty of fluids and eating a balanced diet to stay hydrated and nourished.
Resting and avoiding strenuous activities until the infection clears.
CSD can be prevented by avoiding contact with cats that are infected or have fleas. Some preventive measures that can reduce the risk of getting CSD are:
Washing the wound thoroughly with soap and water after a cat scratch or bite.
Keeping the wound clean and covered until it heals.
Seeking medical attention if the wound becomes infected or the lymph nodes become swollen.
Avoiding rough play or handling of cats, especially kittens.
Keeping cats indoors and away from stray or wild animals.
Treating cats and their environment for fleas regularly.
Washing hands after touching or feeding cats.
In general, CSD is a mild infection that usually resolves on its own. However, it can cause serious complications in some people, especially those with weak immune systems. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of CSD and seek medical assistance if necessary. It is possible to avoid CSD by following some simple precautions.
