Cat Scratch Fever Information

Cat scratch fever, also known as cat scratch disease, refers to an infection passed from cats to humans via a bite or scratch. The bacteria responsible for the infection is harmless to cats but can cause problems for humans.

Considerations

• Cat scratch disease isn't a problem for those who are healthy, but people with weakened immune systems may develop a more severe reaction to the disease.

When to Seek Treatment

• Cat scratches normally do not require medical attention, but if you experience a slow-healing wound, signs of infection or a fever after being bitten or scratched, call your doctor for treatment.

Symptoms

• An infection from the bacteria that cause cat scratch disease may not result in any symptoms for up to a week after the initial bite or scratch. Watch for sores that may develop at the injury site or infected lymph nodes near the location of the bite or scratch.

Diagnosis

• Since many people often do not recall being bitten or scratched, and therefore do not equate the current pains with that original injury, a blood test can diagnose cat scratch disease.

Treatment

• Treatment is usually not necessary, as the disease clears up on its own in most patients. Antibiotics may be necessary, however, if the infection in the lymph nodes does not abate within a few months.