Cat-Scratch Fever Infection

by Tara Reynolds

Overview

Cat-Scratch Fever Infection

Cat-scratch disease, also called cat-scratch fever, can result if your cat licks, bites or scratches you. It is characterized by a mild infection, which is caused by the bacteria Bartonella henselae, or B. henselae.
Features

If you contract this disease, expect swollen lymph nodes and possibly headaches, fever, fatigue or poor appetite. Serious complications are rare, and most cases don't need treatment.

The Facts

Cat-scratch fever is relatively uncommon, with only 22,000 cases diagnosed in the United States each year. However, roughly half of all cats carry the bacteria responsible for the disease.
Prevention/Solution

To minimize the likelihood of contracting the disease, wash areas where your cat licks you, control fleas and don't play so roughly that your cat tries to bite or scratch you.
Considerations

Cats infected with B. henselae show no symptoms. People with compromised immune symptoms are likelier than others to have complications; such individuals should, therefore, take special care when interacting with feline friends.
Misconceptions

Cat-scratch disease can seem contagious if multiple family members are afflicted, but it is not spread through person-to-person contact. Fortunately, one episode of the disease will make you immune to further outbreaks.