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What Is Cat Scratch Fever?

Occasionally, I like to do things because they're fun or silly. Like skipping with my four-year-old nephew. I feel silly, but it's fun. Too often we adults forget how important it is to play. In that vein, we've started a new mini-series of online only factoids that explore the curiosities of pet lore. This week writer Laura French investigates Cat Scratch Fever to uncover its meaning (besides a 70s song that has an unfortunate tendency to get stuck in your head.)

By Cheri Moon, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: June 12, 2008 - 4:24 PM

Join the Dish to blog about cat scratch fever.

Occasionally, I like to do things because they're fun or silly. Like skipping with my four-year-old nephew. I feel silly, but it's fun. Too often we adults forget how important it is to play.

In that vein, we've started a new mini-series of online only factoids that explore the curiosities of pet lore. This week writer Laura French investigates Cat Scratch Fever to uncover its meaning (besides a 70s song that has an unfortunate tendency to get stuck in your head.)

What Is Cat Scratch Fever? By Laura French

You can catch “Cat Scratch Fever” by going to www.YouTube.com and searching on “Ted Nugent.” There are many versions of the 1978 Aerosmith hit available for viewing.

You can also catch cat scratch fever (more accurately known as cat scratch disease) from being scratched or bitten by a cat. The cause is Bartonella henselae, a bacterium that infects about 40 percent of all cats at some time in their lives. The cats will show no symptom of the infection. In humans, B. henselae can result in localized infection at the site of the wound. More severe cases can lead to swollen lymph nodes, fever, aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

Healthy adults will usually fight off the infection in a few days. Young children or people whose immune systems are compromised by HIV/AIDS or organ transplants might be more seriously affected.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that you avoid rough play with cats, and especially with kittens, who are more likely to be carrying the infection. If you do get a bite or scratch, wash it immediately with warm, soapy water. If you develop a localized infection with pus or any of the more serious symptoms, seek medical treatment.

For more information on cat scratch disease, go to www.cdc.gov/healthypets and click “Browse by Disease.”

Laura French is a freelance writer who lives in Roseville with three cats — Gracie, Tennessee Tuxedo and his pal Chumley, and Sofie, whose breed(s) will forever remain a mystery.