We have heard the old wives’ tales, the songs, and the superstitions, but believe it or not, cat scratch fever is a very real thing. And, if you have a pet cat, then there is a pretty decent chance that you will contract it at some time or another.
What exactly is cat scratch fever? Well, most doctors refer to it as cat scratch disease, and it’s actually a bacterial infection. If you have ever gotten bitten or scratched by your cat, and the tiny scratch winds up swelling up and itching – then you most likely have had cat scratch fever.
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Cat scratch fever isn’t usually serious and generally goes away on its own. However, more serious cases may require a dosage of antibiotics from a doctor. If you think you may have contracted the bacterial infection, you should wash your hands and the site of the bite or scratch with warm water and soap immediately – then apply an over the counter anti-bacterial ointment.
Not every bite or scratch automatically means you will contract the bacterial disease. Some cats are actually carriers of the Bartonella henselae bacteria, and that is the only way you will contract cat scratch fever from them. It’s believed that the bacteria is spread from cat to cat via fleas. There really is no way to prevent your pets from contracting the bacteria, your best bet is to try and keep them flea-free.
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If you think you have cat scratch fever, don’t panic. Just keep a close eye on the infected site, and if it doesn’t seem to be healing on its own, or if you begin to show signs of a fever or have swollen lymph nodes – it is time to see a doctor.
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I had no idea that cat scratch fever was a real thing – although it makes perfect sense. I’ve definitely had a cat scratch me and had it get red and itchy before.
Wow to think that a cute cat can do this. I will look out for this with my friends cats.
I knew that cat scratch fever was real, but didn’t know anything about the symptoms or treatment. Good to know!
I had no idea that cat scratch fever was a real thing – although it makes perfect sense. I’ve definitely had a cat scratch me and had it get red and itchy before.
Wow to think that a cute cat can do this. I will look out for this with my friends cats.
I knew that cat scratch fever was real, but didn’t know anything about the symptoms or treatment. Good to know!
Thank you for this information! So helpful! I have to be careful with my cat.
I got cat scratch before and I’m really glad that I didn’t felt sick but this is really helpful.
Wow! I didnt even know there is a kind of cat scratch fever! Thanks for posting this! Also a reminder to everyone who has a cat. Thanks for this and Godbless
Thank you for this information! So helpful! I have to be careful with my cat.
I got cat scratch before and I’m really glad that I didn’t felt sick but this is really helpful.
Wow! I didnt even know there is a kind of cat scratch fever! Thanks for posting this! Also a reminder to everyone who has a cat. Thanks for this and Godbless
I never knew this was an actual condition that had a name…I just thought that a scratch from my cat was supposed to itch…a natural reaction. Learned something new. Thanks
I never knew this was an actual condition that had a name…I just thought that a scratch from my cat was supposed to itch…a natural reaction. Learned something new. Thanks
I’m not a cat person because I’m afraid of most animals. This is very informative, though. Thanks for sharing!
Mhaan | http://www.mommyrockininstyle.com
This was very interesting! I have two cats.
I’m not a cat person because I’m afraid of most animals. This is very informative, though. Thanks for sharing!
Mhaan | http://www.mommyrockininstyle.com
This was very interesting! I have two cats.
I have never heard of cat scratch fever, I personally don’t have cats but I’ll make sure my friends who do know about this.
I have never heard of cat scratch fever, I personally don’t have cats but I’ll make sure my friends who do know about this.
Thanks for giving this info. If in doubt with the scratch, it’s always best to consult a doctor :).
I didn’t realize that cat scratch fever was an actual thing!! This is great information thank you!
Thanks for giving this info. If in doubt with the scratch, it’s always best to consult a doctor :).
I didn’t realize that cat scratch fever was an actual thing!! This is great information thank you!
I have cats at home and I find this article very informative. Thanks for the advice, this could be helpful in the future since I have cats as a pet.
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I have cats at home and I find this article very informative. Thanks for the advice, this could be helpful in the future since I have cats as a pet.
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I have seen people swell up from cat scratches and bites before. I have gotten puffy, but nothing too serious. It is good to know what to watch for.
I have seen people swell up from cat scratches and bites before. I have gotten puffy, but nothing too serious. It is good to know what to watch for.
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