Cat Scratch Fever

Those of you in the over 50 age category will remember this title as a Ted Nugent song of the seventies. For people who have had a run in with the disease it means something entirely different.

What is cat scratch fever? What can be done to prevent it?

Cat Scratch Fever originates with our friend the flea. Fleas transmit the disease from cat to cat. People can then get it from cats. The causative organism is a bacteria called Bartonella. (Do not confuse this with Hemobartonella which is a different disease causing agent)

Some cats with Bartonella will have symptoms that include swollen lymph nodes, poor appetite, fever and a dull attitude. Often cats can carry the disease with no symptoms at all. The disease can be transmitted to humans by a scratch or a bite, hence the name Cat Scratch fever.

Humans will have the same sort of symptoms as cats. In healthy people the disease is not considered a serious health threat. A person infected with the disease may have lesions at the sight of the bite of scratch. They may feel sick and feverish and may have swollen lymph nodes. The disease will run it’s course in two to three weeks.

In immune compromised people the story is much different. The disease can cause severe complications including eye problems, liver problems, respiratory and cardiac problems.

It is possible to test a cat for Bartonella. If you are going to test your new kitten for the disease the most accurate results are after the kitten is over six months old. Test results are open to interpretation so they need to be discussed with your veterinarian.

Flea control is the answer to preventing Cat Scratch Fever. Fleas occur in Texas almost all year. A comprehensive flea control program is essential for the health of both the cat and the cat owner.

When addressing flea problems in cats it is very important to check the labeling of the product you are using. It must be labeled for use in cats. If the label does not mention safety for cats, do not use the product. Cats can die from some of the ingredients used in some canine flea & tick products.

The best bet is to talk with us about your cats environment and life style. We can then help you select the best product based on your individual situation.