Cat Scratch Fever in Children

Cat scratch fever, sometimes called cat scratch disease, is caused by a bacteria called Bartonella henselae, which is sometimes present in the saliva of cats and kittens. In 90 percent of instances, cat scratch fever is the result of being bitten, scratched or licked by a cat. According to Kidshealth.org, around 22,000 of cases of cat scratch fever in the U.S. occur annually, most of which are noted in children.

What Causes Cat Scratch Fever?

• According to the Centers for Disease Control, the bacteria that causes cat scratch fever is present in 40 percent of felines at some point during their lifetimes. There is evidence to indicate that fleas cause B. henselae in a cat's saliva, as fleas are carriers of this bacteria. However, there's no evidence that a flea bite can transmit cat scratch fever to humans, according to the CDC. Cats with the bacteria show no sign of illness and don't need to receive veterinary treatment, as the bacteria often goes away within a few weeks. According to the CDC, kittens are more likely to be infected with the bacteria that causes cat scratch fever.

Why Do Children Get It More?

• Children get cat scratch fever more often because they usually play with cats and kittens more frequently. Children may not know how to play with or handle cats gently or appropriately and they may "roughhouse" with the family pet. They are naturally more prone to receiving scratches and bites from an irascible cat or kitten.

Symptoms in Children

• Swollen lymph nodes are the dominant symptom of cat scratch fever in children. Other symptoms may include fever (typically less than 101 degrees F), appetite loss, headache, sore throat, rash, and tiredness. Symptoms are usually noted within a couple of weeks after a child has been bitten or scratched. Swollen lymph nodes are more common in the underarm or neck area than other areas of the body.

Is Treatment Necessary?

• In most cases, cat scratch fever resolves on its own without the need for medical treatment. Occasionally, a doctor may recommend draining the fluid in a swollen lymph node if it's particularly large and tender. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to treat your child's cat scratch fever. Warm compresses can be applied to the swollen lymph nodes at home, and over-the-counter treatments, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can also assuage your child's discomfort.

Preventing Cat Scratch Fever

• Cat scratch fever occurs rarely, and in children, it's generally very mild and nonthreatening. Instructing children how to handle cats properly is the key to avoiding cat scratch fever. Discourage your child from rough handling of the family feline. This alone will prevent many inadvertent scratches and bites. Also, educate your child on the importance of not touching stray cats. If your child is bitten or scratched, wash the skin immediately using soap and water. To lower the chances that your cat has B. henselae, keep fleas under control, both on your pet and in your home.