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What is cat scratch fever?
- A mild to severe bacterial disease that is transmitted cat to cat or cat to person.
- Caused by bacteria Bartonella Henselea.
What animals can get cat scratch fever?
- The only animals that are naturally infected by the bacteria are domestic and wild cats.
- 40% of cats have cat scratch fever at some stage in their lives.
- There have been unusual cases in horses, dogs, whales, seals, cattle, feral pigs and porpoises.
How does it affect my animal?
- Cats do not show any signs of disease.
How can my animal get cat scratch fever?
- The disease is spread from cat to cat is by vectors (fleas).
- Feral cats have a major risk to be injected than pet cats.
How can I protect my animal?
- Flea control.
- Keeping the cat indoors.
- Avoid other cats.
Can I get cat scratch fever?
- Yes, the bacteria is passed from cat to human through bites and scratches.
- Symptoms appear 3 to 10 days after being scratched or bitten and it usually heals on its own in 4 to 8 weeks.
- The most common signs are blister, rash or ulcer at the wound site. Swelling of the lymph nodes may occur.
- People with compromised immune system may develop blood and whole body infections and fever.
- 5-16% of patients have heart damage or liver infection.
How can I protect myself from cat scratch fever?
- Avoid “rough play” with cats.
- Wash any cat bites or scratches with running water and soap and do not allow cats to lick open wounds that you may have.
- Flea control.
Who should I contact if I suspect the disease?
- In Animals: cats do not show any symptoms.
- In humans: contact your doctor
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