Staphylococcus, or staph, is a bacteria that can occur normally in small numbers on the skin of people, dogs and even cats.
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Misconceptions
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Having staph bacteria present on the skin is normal. Staph infections only occur because the opportunist bacteria finds a way into a cut or other opening to cause an infection.
Types
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Common forms of staph infections include Staph dermatitis and middle or inner ear infections. Staph dermatitis is when the bacteria enters a scratch, multiplies and the infection begins. Middle- or inner-ear infections occur when the staph bacteria multiply in the ear.
Identification
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Symptoms of staph ear infections include pain, discharge and scratching at the affected ear. Serious infections may actually paralyze half the cat's face due to swelling. Staph dermatitis symptoms include small pus-filled lesions or large red areas that are scaly with a loss of fur.
Solution
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Once a vet has confirmed the presence of a staph infection, a course of treatment will be recommended for the type of infection.
Warning
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Staph has the potential to spread from pets to humans. If your cat has a staph infection, take special care and always wash your hands after handling your cat.
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