The odds of getting significantly sick from a cat scratch (specifically Cat Scratch Disease, or CSD) are very low, with an estimated annual incidence of only 4.5 cases per 100,000 people. While cat scratches are common, most do not cause serious illness; however, risk is higher with kittens, strays, and in households with fleas.

How common is it to get sick from a cat scratch?

They found that the average annual incidence of CSD was approximately 4.5 cases per 100,000 population, or approximately 0.005%. They found that the highest incidence was in southern states and that children between the ages of 5 and 9 years are at increased risk for CSD.

Do I need to worry if I got scratched by a cat?

You should clean the scratch thoroughly with soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover it, but worry if you see signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, pus, fever, headache, or fatigue, which could mean Cat Scratch Disease (CSD) or tetanus; seek medical help if deep, won't stop bleeding, or if you have a weakened immune system.
 

How quickly does cat scratch disease set in?

Signs and Symptoms

Within 2 weeks of being scratched, the lymph nodes closest to the site of the scratch may become swollen. Fever is usually present. Other symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, weakness, chills, aches, and a general feeling of being ill.

Should I go to urgent care if my cat scratches me?

When should I call my healthcare provider? Call your healthcare provider if a cat scratch or bite becomes red or swollen and you develop flu-like symptoms, such as headache, decreased appetite, fatigue, joint pain, or fever.

Doctor explains CAT SCRATCH FEVER disease | Causes, symptoms and treatment

How can I tell if a cat scratch is infected?

The first sign of cat-scratch disease is a small lump or pustule (pimple) (see image) at the site of a cat scratch or bite, developing within a few days, though often it is so minor that it is forgotten. After another 1 to 7 weeks, swelling of lymph glands in the region of the scratch will occur.

Who is most at risk for cat scratch fever?

Cat scratch fever can affect anyone, but is most common in children younger than 15 years of age. Most patients report a history of a cat bite, lick, or scratch. Kittens are more likely to be infected and to pass the bacteria on to people.

Is it necessary to take a vaccine for cat scratch?

get vaccinated as possible ! Yes, rabies can be caused even with minor scratches. Better take precaution. I suggest that you should get rabies vaccination done as soon as possible...

What does a serious cat scratch look like?

The first sign of a cat scratch infection is a blister or a small bump several days after the scratch or bite. It may look like a bug bite. Within a couple of weeks of a scratch or bite, one or more lymph nodes close to this area will swell and become tender.

What exactly is cat scratch fever?

Cat scratch fever (usually called cat scratch disease or CSD) is an illness caused by the bacteria Bartonella henselae (B. henselae). It causes swollen lymph nodes, bumps on your skin and a fever. B. henselae can infect you if a cat bites or scratches you or licks an open wound you have.

How quickly can a cat wound get infected?

"Cat bites often show signs of infection very quickly — within the first three to 12 hours — so patients will want to check the wound frequently and seek medical attention early if redness or increased pain develops."

How do I know if I need a tetanus shot after a cat scratch?

you've not been fully vaccinated against tetanus (or you're not sure if you have) you've tried to clean the wound but there's still dirt or soil in it. the wound is hot or swollen (it may also be painful, red or darker than the surrounding skin) you have a high temperature, or you feel hot, cold or shivery.

What happens if cat scratch fever is untreated?

(Cat-Scratch Fever)

People with cat-scratch disease have a red, painless bump at the site of the scratch, and some have a fever, headache, poor appetite, or swollen lymph nodes. In people with a weakened immune system, the infection may spread throughout the body and, without treatment, may result in death.

How long after a cat scratch does the infection set in?

Cat-Scratch Fever Symptoms

Bumps or blisters where the scratch/bite happened – these usually appear within three to ten days. Swollen lymph nodes which will appear one to seven weeks after the scratch or bite.

What percentage of cats carry Bartonella?

It is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. About 40% of cats carry this bacteria at some time in their lives, although most cats with this infection show NO signs of illness. Kittens younger than one year are more likely to have Bartonella henselae infection and to spread the germ to people.

How do you test for cat scratch disease?

Indirect fluorescence assay (IFA) testing and enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) are used to detect serum antibody to B henselae. An antibody titer that exceeds 1:64 suggests recent Bartonella infection. Paired acute and convalescent sera (drawn 6 wk apart) showing a 4-fold or greater increase is confirmatory.

What are the CDC guidelines for cat scratches?

Promptly wash any cat scratches or bites with soap and water. Avoid contact with fleas. Treat your cat with a flea control product recommended by your veterinarian. If you are getting a cat, make sure it's at least a year old, in good health, and free of fleas.

Can your body fight off cat scratch fever?

Cat scratch disease is often not a serious illness. For most people, it goes away on its own.

Should I be worried if I got scratched by a cat?

You should clean the scratch thoroughly with soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover it, but worry if you see signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, pus, fever, headache, or fatigue, which could mean Cat Scratch Disease (CSD) or tetanus; seek medical help if deep, won't stop bleeding, or if you have a weakened immune system.
 

What are the signs of Bartonella in humans?

Historically, the most common causative agents for human disease have been Bartonella bacilliformis, Bartonella quintana, and Bartonella henselae. These infections cause a variety of manifestations from mild symptoms such as fever, headache, and malaise to more severe symptoms such as hallucinations [3,5,6,7,8].

When should I go to the ER for a cat scratch?

If you develop a fever or other signs of infection — swelling, redness, pain, a bad smell or fluid draining from the area — see a physician immediately. If an animal acts strangely and bites you, go to an emergency department or see your doctor immediately, because the animal may have rabies.

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