The bacteria causes the lymph node to become red, swollen, and painful. Once it enters the skin, the bacteria travels to the nearest lymph node. henselae gets into a person’s body, it can cause a local infection and rash near the bite or scratch. How does cat scratch disease affect the human body? Receive blood transfusions: If a cat gets a blood transfusion that is contaminated with B. įight with other cats: When cats fight, they can come in contact with another cat’s blood and catch B. Spend time outdoors: Outdoor (or hunting) cats are more likely to come in contact with fleas and other cats, which puts them at risk for B. Have fleas: Fleas can pass the bacteria from one cat to another.Īre kittens: Kittens are more likely to have more bacteria in their blood than adult cats. But in some areas of the U.S., these rates are much higher.Ĭats are more likely to carry B. Studies estimate that about 30% to 40% of cats carry B. Do all cats carry Bartonella henselae bacteria? There’s also evidence that dogs can carry B. Fleas are the most common way the bacteria passes between cats.
Lick an area of skin with a break, like a woundĬat fleas also carry B. henselae and can spread it to other animals and people.Ĭats can pass B. Since cats don’t usually get sick, they carry B. henselae can live in a cat’s blood without causing any signs of illness.
What causes cat scratch disease?īartonella henselae is the bacteria that causes cat scratch disease.
Cat scratch disease symptoms how to#
If you have a cat, here’s everything you need to know about cat scratch disease and how to stay safe while staying close with your cat. While these aren’t always a big deal, they can lead to infections such as cat scratch disease (also known as “cat scratch fever”). Some research suggests that pet ownership might have a positive influence on mental well-being.īut owning a cat comes with challenges too - like being scratched and nipped. If you have a cat, you know the joys of having your purring, fluffy friend nearby.
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