Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates - Cat Scratch Fever Web Page

BBVA Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates

230 Main Street * Buzzards Bay, MA 02532 * Tel: 508-759-2521 * Fax: 508-759-6782

Cat Scratch Fever

Cat scratch fever is a human disease caused by bacteria called Bartonella henselae. It is transmitted by the scratch (or possibly bite) of a cat. Since it is transmitted from animals to people it is categorized as a zoonotic disease. For most people with normal immune systems this infection will result in a small swelling at the site of the scratch followed 2-3 weeks later by swelling of nearby lymph nodes and a fever. This mild syndrome usually resolves without any further problems. People with compromised immune systems can develop severe systemic infections from Bartonella infection.

Cats are only able to spread Bartonella to humans if it is on their claws (or possibly teeth). Fleas are the chief reason that cats carry this bacteria since it is primarily spread by the bite of a flea. In order for a cat to transmit this infection to a person they must scratch at the fleas and pick up flea feces containing Bartonella on their claws. If there are no fleas then there will be no spread of the infection.

Usually cats do not get very sick from Bartonella infection, in fact the infection generally runs a course similar to the mild form in humans. However, it is thought that Bartonella may be linked to certain inflammatory conditions in cats, especially a severe type of gingivitis. Although not proven a course of antibiotics that kills Bartonella is sometimes prescribed. The antibiotic of choice is azithromycin (Zithromax) which is usually given as a three week course. Although it is unknown that Bartonella is the cause of these problems, the azithromycin usually improves the problem since it is a great antibiotic for killing many types of bacteria that can be involved in stimulating inflammation.

There is no great way to screen cats for Bartonella. Some tests available check for antibodies to the bacteria. This only proves that a cat has been exposed at some point. In areas that get warm and humid weather which promotes flea reproduction (such as New England) as many as 40% of cats may test positive. Other tests look for the presence of bacteria in the cat’s body. These often miss the disease as the bacteria circulates intermittently. It is not currently recommended that cats be routinely screened for Bartonella.

Prevention of cat scratch fever should be primarily aimed at flea control. There are currently available several safe prescription products that kill fleas and can be used year-round. Never use over the counter flea products because the old-fashioned poisons in them are very toxic to cats. Dedham Veterinary Associates recommends monthly treatments with Revolution for all cats which not only kills fleas but also prevents many other zoonotic parasites. Prevention of fleas and other parasites is essential for cats that live with immunocompromised individuals and very important for all cats.

GO BACK