6 Facts You Need to Know about Cat Scratch Disease!

Cat scratch disease is a health problem caused by a bacterium called Bartonella Henselae, which can occur in some cats, although not often. This bacterium causes infection when it comes into contact with the human body. Contact occurs when a cat bites, salivates or licks an open wound. Cat scratch disease is also popularly known as ‘Cat Scratch Fever’. According to the results of scientific research, it has been observed that the bacteria causing this disease are transmitted to cats by fleas. Especially cats under 12 months of age are in the high-risk group for being carriers of this disease. You can find detailed information about cat scratch disease in the rest of the article.

1- Which is the Risk Group for Cat Scratch Disease?

Cat scratch disease is a subject that is not widely known by cat owners. For this reason, the question of what is cat scratch disease arises frequently. We have briefly summarized what this disease is above. Now it is useful to talk about the risk group. Individuals living with cats at home who give food to stray cats are in the risk group of this disease. Especially individuals who are intertwined with playful cats are at risk of developing this disease. In addition to these risk groups, we can also show people who are exposed to nail marks while playing with kittens. Especially if the hygiene of these scratches is not maintained in a short time, cat scratch disease can be seen. It should not be forgotten that it is not possible to tell from the outside whether a cat has fleas or not. For this reason, it is important that cats are regularly taken to veterinarians and routinely checked.

2- Is Cat Scratch Disease Contagious?

The contagiousness of this disease in humans is not high. On the contrary, it is not possible to be transmitted from person to person. It is not possible for these bacterial creatures to be contagious. In this context, it would be better for people to get information under the supervision of a doctor in order to make them feel comfortable.

3- Cat Scratch Disease Risk for Eyes

Cat scratch disease is very dangerous for the eye. The eye is very vulnerable to bacteria. It creates bigger problems when it comes into contact with the eye. In this context, the doctor should be contacted directly when the eye is addressed. Drug treatment should be started in order to destroy the bacteria in the eye.

4- What are the Symptoms of Cat Scratch Disease?

First of all, it is worth noting that cat scratch disease is not very common. Therefore, this health problem should not be attributed to all cats. However, we should always be cautious when approaching cats whose health history we do not know, and avoid sudden movements that may startle them.

In this way, the risk of getting cat scratch disease is minimized. So what are the symptoms of cat scratch disease? Here is the answer…

• The first sign of cat scratch disease is a red swelling at the wound site. There may also be pain and blistering.
• Swelling and pain may occur in the wound area due to infection.
• One of the common symptoms is headache.
• In some cases, loss of appetite may also be observed.
• If biting or scratching has occurred in the arm area, swelling may occur in the armpit area of that arm.

Each of these symptoms may be observed, or sometimes none of them may be observed. For this reason, it is important to contact a veterinarian after a cat scratch and get detailed information on the subject.

5- How to Treat Cat Scratch Disease?

If the person exposed to the scratch is in good general health, no treatment is needed. It usually goes away on its own in a short time. If the transition period is prolonged and other symptoms appear, you should contact a health institution immediately. Cat scratch disease is a condition that should be taken seriously.

Physicians usually use medication to treat cat scratch disease. This includes painkillers and antibiotics. If the disease progresses, surgical intervention may be necessary. If you have symptoms of cat scratch disease, you should contact a doctor.

Antibiotic Treatment for Cat Scratch Disease

One of the most common treatment methods for cat scratch disease is the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are used to kill bacteria. However, it is not recommended that people use these drugs without a doctor’s supervision. Because excessive use of antibiotics will also harm the person’s body.

6- Does Cat Scratch Disease Kill?

If the person does not have a different disease, it is not likely to kill. However, the problem in the immune system creates a serious problem for individuals. It is especially useful for patients with cancer to be extra careful. Because the immune system of these patients is quite low compared to normal patients. Nevertheless, in general terms, the lethality rate of cat scratch disease is almost negligible. At least, it is not known as a cause of death announced and recorded by organizations within the scope of health. If you have this disease, you can start using medication with peace of mind after consulting a doctor. If you like this topic, you may be interested in the topic ‘Kidney Failure in Cats’. Information about cats is also shared on our Cat Love social media account. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiBI_25d8j4