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In this Article

• What is cat scratch disease? What are cat scratch disease symptoms?
• Can my cat transmit Bartonella henselae to me?
• How can I reduce my risk of getting cat scratch disease from my cat?
• How can I find more information about cat scratch disease?
• Cat Scratch Disease Index

• Avoid "rough play" with cats, especially kittens. This includes any activity that may lead to cat scratches and bites.



• Wash cat bites and scratches immediately and thoroughly with running water and soap.



• Do not allow cats to lick open wounds that you may have.



• Control fleas.



• If you develop an infection (with pus and pronounced swelling) where you were scratched or bitten by a cat or develop symptoms, including fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue, contact your physician.

Cat-Scratch Disease in Children—Texas, September 2000—August 2001. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

Unraveling Mysteries Associated with Cat-Scratch Disease, Bacillary Angiomatosis, and Related Syndromes. Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal. January-March 1995, Volume 1, Number 1.

Epidemiologic Notes and Reports Encephalitis Associated with Cat Scratch Disease—Broward and Palm Beach Counties, Florida, 1994. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. December 16, 1994 / 43(49);909,915-916.

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention