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Can You Get Cat Scratch Fever in Your Eye?

Cat scratch fever is often a harmless infection and rarely affects the eyes. However, some cases can be more serious, and eye problems should not be taken lightly; discuss treatment options with your doctor.

  1. Cat Scratch Fever

    • Cat scratch fever is caused by the Bartonella hensela bacteria. It is usually transmitted through the scratch or bite of an infected cat.

    Eyes

    • While most cases of cat scratch fever do not involve the eye, some do. According to Alexander C. Tsang, MD, less than 10 percent of cases will affect the eye.

    Eye Problems

    • Some reported problems of cat scratch fever in the eye include swelling of the optic nerve, eyelid lesions and conjunctivitis.

    Cat Saliva

    • One way cat scratch fever can be transmitted is if cat saliva comes into contact with the white of the eye.

    Treatment

    • Many cases of cat scratch fever do not require treatment and will go away on their own. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs can be prescribed for more serious cases. Some eye infections can be serious and require more intensive treatment.

    Precautions

    • If you notice any ill effects after being bitten, scratched or licked by a cat, talk to your doctor. People with a suppressed immune system, such as AIDS patients, should be treated with antibiotics. Eye complications such as vision loss are possible, so it is important to seek medical attention.

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