What Are the Causes of Cat Scratch Fever?

Cat scratch fever--also called "scratch disease," or CSD--is a bacterial infection, according to the U.S. National Center for Infectious Diseases of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The specific bacteria that causes cat scratch fever is known as Bartonella henselae, or B. henselae for short.

  1. Infection

    • Most of people who contract cat scratch disease have either been scratched or been bitten by a cat. In order for a cat to infect a human, the cat must be infected with the bacteria B. henselae. A cat carrying the bacteria may not show any signs of disease. It is possible for healthy cats to carry the cat scratch disease organism.

    Causes

    • Cats can contract B. henselae through flea feces, according to PetEducation.com. After fleas carrying the bacteria shed feces within the cat's fur, the cat becomes infected when it transfers the feces to its mouth while licking, scratching or grooming its coat.

    Early Symptoms

    • One of the first symptoms of cat scratch fever is swelling of the lymph nodes. Lymph nodes located around the neck, head and limbs may become swollen.

    Other Symptoms

    • Other common symptoms of cat scratch disease include diminished appetite, fever and headaches. A blister or bump may also develop at the sight of the injury. Less common symptoms of cat scratch disease include a sore throat, an enlarged spleen and weight loss.

    Prevention

    • There are several ways to avoid contracting the bacteria that causes cat scratch fever. Take steps to control fleas, avoid rough play with cats and wash any cat scratches or bites immediately. Also, try to prevent cats from licking any open wounds they may have.