Watch Your Skin Around Kittens, They Could Be Carrying CSD

Cat scratch fever, also known as cat scratch disease (CSD), is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae which is carried in the saliva of cats. It most commonly is transferred to a human after a cat scratches or bites them. It is relatively mild and rare.

A mild infection develops and the lymph nodes swell. A person suffering from CSD may also have fever, headache, fatigue, rash, sore throat, and a lack of appetite. A small bump develops where the cat bite or scratch occurred. It may look like an insect bite, which is what it is often mistaken for. It is called an inoculation lesion, and most commonly found on the head, arms, hands or scalp. They are not painful.

Lymph nodes in the area of the bite or scratch will become tender and swell a few weeks after the injury occurred.

Approximately 40% of cats carry the bacteria at one point in their lives. Kittens are more likely to infect people if they scratch or bite them. It is not possible to tell that a cat has the bacteria, due to the fact that they do not show any signs or symptoms. Those with suppressed immune systems are more likely to contract an infection from the scratches and bites from cats. Fleas can also spread the bacteria between cats, but there is no proven evidence that fleas can transfer the bacteria to humans.

CSD cannot be spread from person to person. One episode of the infection usually makes a person immune for the rest of their life.

CSD can be reduced by avoiding any rough play with cats, which may lead to scratches and bites. Make sure all bites and scratches are washed immediately with water and soap. Cats should also not lick any open wounds you may have. If you develop an infection, complete with pus and swelling, contact a doctor as soon as possible.

In the United States, approximately 22,000 cases are reported annually. Most of the people infected with CSD are under 21 years old.