Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection due to a scratch of cat. The reason why this happens is that the cat is infected with the Bartonella henselae bacteria.
The disease can also be acquired from a bite from a diseased cat and happens if the saliva enters an open wound or on the white of your eyes. The disease can also be acquired from a flea or tick that carries the bacterium. You cannot get the disease from other humans.
Signs and symptoms of cat scratch disease
- A bump or blister at the where the bite or scratch is located
- Swollen lymph nodes near the bite or scratch
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- A low-grade fever
- Body aches
A bump or blister at the where the bite or scratch is located.
Some of the uncommon signs of cat scratch fever include the following:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- A sore throat
If you contracted a more severe version of the disease, these symptoms may appear:
- Back pain
- Chills
- Abdominal pain
- Joint pain
- Rash
- Prolonged fever
Treatment of cat scratch fever
Cat scratch fever is not usually serious and does not necessitate treatment. The doctor prescribes antibiotics to treat those with severe cases of the disease or have a weak immune system.
Prevention
The most effective way to prevent this disease is by simply avoiding exposure to cats. If you own a pet cat, however, avoid playing rough with your cat that could lead you to be scratched or bitten by your cat. You should also keep the nails of your pet cat trimmed to lessen scratches.
- Cleansing your hands after playing with your cat can also help reduce the chance of getting the disease. Do not let your cat lick your eyes, mouth, or any open wounds that you have and have your pets avoid feral cats.
- Keeping your pet cat indoors and administering an anti-flea medication can also help reduce the risk of your cat of contracting B. henselae.
- Inspect your cat from time to time for fleas with a flea comb and reduce the number of fleas in your home with frequent vacuuming. If there is an infestation of fleas, you can call a pest control agency to help eliminate the fleas in your home.
FACT CHECK
https://www.healthline.com/health/cat-scratch-disease