Cat scratch disease
Pets can be a great source of joy and company for people of all ages. But, like many pleasant things in life, they can also have a negative aspect. Pets can be a source of illnesses, sometimes serious.
Cat scratch disease (CSD) is one such illness. As its name suggests, it is spread through being scratched or, less commonly, bitten by a cat infected with the bacterium responsible for the disease (Bartonella henselae). It seems that kittens are more likely to cause the problem than full-grown cats, perhaps because of their more playful nature.
Symptoms of cat scratch disease
A variety of symptoms can occur when this infection is present. Usually there will be swollen glands, which may remain swollen for several months. Glands in the axilla (armpit), neck or groin are the ones most often affected. At the beginning of the illness there may be a fever, headache, tiredness and loss of appetite. There may be an obviously infected sore at the site of the scratch or bite.
Cat scratch disease diagnosis
The diagnosis of cat scratch disease is not always easy, particularly if the patient doesn't remember, or didn't notice, being injured by a cat. A flu-like illness lasting a few days may have been forgotten and it is only the presence of persistently swollen glands that causes the affected person to seek medical advice. Blood tests and a biopsy (taking a sample) of the swollen glands may be needed to confirm CSD.
Treatment for cat scratch disease
Most cases do not need treatment, but long lasting or more serious infections will require a course of antibiotics.
Anyone with persistently swollen glands should seek medical advice. If you own a cat you should remember to tell your doctor — it may make your doctor's job easier.
This bacteria does not make cats sick, and they do not require any treatment.
Last Reviewed: 16 February 2009
