Cat scratch fever, or cat scratch disease (CSD), may sound very bizarre, but it is a real infection that is caused by the bacteria Bartonella hensalae, normally transmitted through a scratch or a bite from an infected cat, often from a kitten. While it may seem simple, a scratch can turn out to be quite serious, and it’s true.
An infection usually starts from a mild bump and can result in serious symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, high fever, sore throat, or even virus-like signs. Starting symptoms like strep throat or pink eye are taken as a normal condition, but can turn out to be in serious condition if not treated properly.
Let’s dive into the blog to know how this simple-looking affection related to felines can lead to serious complications and how it can be treated.
How Common Is Cat Scratch Fever?
Cat scratch fever is very uncommon but still occurs, especially in individuals who are in very close contact with cats or kittens. Usually, a simple scratch normally heals, but people with low immunity are more prone to this fever. While infection is rare, still around 12,000 cases are reported every year in the U.S.
What Causes Cat Scratch Fever?
The bacterium Bartonella henselae, typically present in the saliva of flea-infected cats, causes cat scratch fever. You can contract this disease through a scratch or bite from an infected cat, or if its saliva enters your open wound or touches the whites of your eyes. In rare cases, fleas or ticks that carry the bacteria can also transmit the infection.
Who Is At High Risk?
Anyone who interacts with cats, especially playful kittens, is at some risk of contracting cat scratch fever. While the infection is rare, certain people are more vulnerable to serious complications. According to the CDC(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), the disease is most common in the southern United States and affects children aged 5 to 9 more than any other group.
Other High-Risk Groups Include:
1. Cats and kittens are more likely to scratch or bite children and young adults who are more playful with them.
2. People with weakened immunity, especially those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, diabetes, or an organ transplant, are at risk.
3. During pregnancy, pregnant women experience many changes in the body that affect the immune system.
4. Cat owners and handlers, especially those with multiple pets or flea-infested cats.
5. Individuals living in flea-prone areas, as fleas can transmit Bartonella henselae from animals to humans
Symptoms Of Cat Scratch Fever
What Are The Symptoms Of Cat Scratch Fever In Cats?
Cats infected with Bartonella henselae normally don’t show any obvious symptoms, but can carry bacteria without appearing sick. But cats with weakened immune systems or kittens may experience mild symptoms that can include:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes
What Are The Common Symptoms Of Cat Scratch Fever In Humans?
| Symptoms | Details |
| Swollen Lymph Nodes | Tender Lump Near Bite Or Scratch |
| Fever | Mild To High, May Differ |
| Fatigue | Low Energy, Tiredness |
| Headache | Mild And Common |
| Sore Throat | Similar To Strep Or Viral Infection |
| Loss Of Appetite | Not Feel Like Eating |
| Skin Bump Or Blister | Red Bump At The Scratch Or Bite Site |
| Eye Infection | Red, Sore Eye With Swollen Nearby Nodes |
| Muscle Aches | Flu-Like Body Pain |
| High Fever | In Severe or Weak Immune Cases |
| Pink Eye | Redness, Irritation In The Eyes |
| Flu-Like Symptoms | Chills, Sweating, General Discomfort |
Are Cat Scratch Fever And Viral Symptoms The Same?
Cat scratch fever and virus symptoms seem to appear similar at first, but they are different. While some symptoms may appear similar to each other,
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
Differ in:
| Aspects | Cat Scratch Fever | Viral Infection |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Bacteria(Bartonella Henselae) | Virus(flu,cold etc) |
| Source | Cat Scratch, Bite, Or Saliva | Airborne or person-to-person |
| Lymph Nodes | Swelling near the scratch site | Rare |
| Skin Bump | Common scratch bite | Rare |
| Treatment | Antibiotics if needed | Rest, Fluids |
| Contagious | No | Yes |
What Does Cat Scratch Fever Look Like?
Cat scratch fever normally starts with a small red bump or blister at the site of the scratch or bite. Within a few days or weeks, the nearby lymph nodes will become swollen and tender. You may feel exhaustion, tiredness, have a mild to high fever, or experience headaches or a sore throat. Normally, people with weakened immunity may experience more severe symptoms or complications, requiring immediate medical attention.
Diagnosis Of Cat Scratch Fever
How Is Cat Scratch Fever Diagnosed?
Cat scratch fever is usually diagnosed after studying your symptoms, medical history, and sometimes certain lab tests. Usually, the process includes
1. Physical Examination: Your doctor checks physical signs like swollen lymph nodes, skin bumps at the scratch site, and fever.
2. Medical History: You’ll be asked some questions, such as if you have been around cats recently, especially kittens or cats that may have fleas.
3. Blood Tests: Bartonella henselae body test (serology) may be performed, or a PCR test may be ordered to confirm the infection.
4. Lymph Node Biopsy: This is very rare and only performed if symptoms are very serious; in this case, a sample from the node will be taken to figure out the real condition.
What Are The Complications Related To Cat Scratch Fever?
Cat scratch fever is mild and resolves on its own, but in serious cases, it can lead to complications like:
1. Bacillary Angiomatosis
Bacillary angiomatosis is a rare but serious skin condition marked by red, wart-like lesions. It primarily affects people with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV/AIDS.
2. Parinaud’s Oculoglandular Syndrome
An eye infection that mimics the pink eye is accompanied by swollen lymph nodes near the ear. It occurs when the bacteria enter the eye through contact with infected cat saliva or hands.
3. Encephalopathy (Brain Inflammation)
Though uncommon, the bacteria can spread to the brain, leading to inflammation known as encephalopathy. This may trigger confusion, seizures, and, in severe cases, coma.
4. Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is a serious bacterial bone infection that can develop if Bartonella henselae spreads through the bloodstream. This condition causes intense pain and swelling and can damage bone tissue if left untreated.
5. Endocarditis
Endocarditis is a severe infection of the heart’s inner lining, typically affecting those with pre-existing heart conditions. It can cause fever, fatigue, and damage to heart valves if not treated promptly.
6. Hepatosplenic Involvement
Hepatosplenic involvement occurs when the liver or spleen becomes inflamed due to the infection, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and nausea.
Management And Treatment
Cat scratch fever is generally not grave and doesn’t require medical treatment. But in serious cases or for those who have a weakened immune system, antibiotics may be required.
Common Antibiotics For Treatment
- Azithromycin (Zithromax)- Used for reducing lymph node swelling quickly and generally prescribed for five days.
Other options are:
- Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)
- Rifampin (Rifadin)
- Tetracycline (Sumycin)
- Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)
The time of treatment may vary depending on the severity of the case, ranging from five days to two weeks. Before taking any medicine, consult your doctor about its potential interactions, especially if you drink alcohol.
Recovery Timeline
- The blister or bump caused by a bite or scratch usually lasts for 1-3 weeks.
- Swollen lymph nodes usually take much time, as it requires 2-4 months to fully go down; in certain cases, it can even take 6 months to a year to fully disappear. Too long swelling in the lymph nodes can also result in other complications.
Prevention
How Can I Prevent Cat Scratch Fever?
Preventing cat scratch fever starts with understanding how the infection spreads and taking simple steps to reduce your risk, especially if you are a cat owner or regularly around cats.
1. Wash Hands: Always wash your hands after handling cats or cleaning their litter box.
2. Avoid Rough Play: Don’t allow rough play or encourage scratching and biting.
3. Flea Control: Use flea prevention treatments for your cat to reduce the risk.
4. Avoid Stray Cats: Avoid contact with stray or outdoor cats that may carry the bacteria.
5. Vet Checkups: Keep your cat healthy with regular vet visits and flea treatments.
6. Clean Scratches/Bites: Clean any scratches or bites immediately with soap and water.
7. Take Extra Care if Immunocompromised: People with weak immune systems should avoid close contact with cats or seek advice from a doctor.
When Should I See My Doctor?
You should see your doctor if you experience the following symptoms after a scratch or bite:
– Swelling And Tenderness: If the lymph node near the scratch bite has swollen and is painful.
– Persistent Fever: If you have a fever lasting several days.
– Skin Lesion Or Bump: If the scratch, bite, or affected area develops a red bump, blister, or sore that is not healing.
– Pain or Swelling in Other Areas: If pain, swelling, or redness spreads beyond the affected area.
– Fatigue and Unexplained Symptoms: If you start feeling tired or experience flu-like symptoms (headache, muscle aches).
– Eye Issues: If your eye becomes red, painful, or you feel irritation in your eye after contact with the cat.
– Weak Immune System: If you have a weak immune system from other medical conditions.
Conclusion
Cat scratch fever might not be as commonly talked about as the flu or strep throat, but it can cause noticeable symptoms like high fever, swollen lymph nodes, and eye infections. These signs can easily be mistaken for other illnesses, such as strep throat, pink eye, or general viral infections, which makes proper diagnosis critical. If you’re experiencing a sore throat, throat infection, or irritated eyes after a scratch or bite, it’s essential to understand how these symptoms may be connected.
So, if your furry friend leaves you with a scratch, there’s no need to worry-but it’s wise to stay alert. Watch for signs like rising fever or unusual eye irritation, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if symptoms develop. A little awareness goes a long way in protecting your health.
Commonly Asked Questions
1. What is the real name of Cat Scratch Fever?
The real name for cat scratch fever is cat scratch disease (CSD), which is commonly caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. An infected cat or kitten can transmit it to humans through a scratch or bite. The term cat scratch disease is commonly used by healthcare professionals.
2. How many injections for a cat scratch?
The number of injections after a cat scratch or bite usually depends on the risk. If your tetanus vaccination is up to date, then there is no need for further injections. If rabies is a concern, your doctor will recommend a series of rabies shots with one immune globulin.
3. How many days to observe a cat scratch?
If you have got a scratch or bite from a cat, then observe your symptoms for about 7-10 days. Watch for the signs:
- Redness or swelling that worsens.Â
- A blister or bump forms at the site.
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes.
- If you have touched your eye, you may be experiencing eye irritation.
- If you notice your symptoms worsening during this period, please consult your doctor promptly.
4. Which injection is used for cat scratches?
The injection used for cat scratches depends on the severity and situation. Some common injections that are used:
1. Tetanus Shot: This injection is given if your tetanus vaccine is outdated(more than 5-10 years) or the wound is deep and dirty.
2. Rabies Vaccine Rabies Immune Globulin: This injection is given if the cat was stray, unvaccinated, or showing unusual behavior as a precaution against rabies.
3. Antibiotics (Rarely Injectable): This injection is given in severe cases or to people who have a weak immune system. An antibiotic may be given by injection or IV.
5. What is the best antibiotic for a cat bite?
- Â Amoxicillin-Clavulanate (Augmentin) – It works very well against the common bacteria in a cat’s mouth.
Doctors prescribe this mainly right away to prevent infection.
If you are allergic to penicillin, then the doctor may suggest:
- Doxycycline
- Cefuroxime
- Moxifloxacin
