How to Prevent Cat Scratch Fever

Cat scratch fever is also sometimes called "cat scratch disease." This disease is actually a bacteria that is found in some cat saliva. The bacteria is passed on to humans through a cat bite or scratch that pierces the skin. This bacteria can make a human sick, although some humans may never come down with any symptoms. If you do your part, you can prevent cat scratch fever.

Things You'll Need

  • Soap
  • Water
  • Flea treatments
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash your hands with soap and water after playing with your cat. If your cat scratched you anywhere, you will want to wash that area with soap and water as well. This can prevent the bacteria from getting in to your body.

    • 2

      Be cautious with small kittens. Kittens tend to carry cat scratch fever more often than adult cats. Kittens also scratch more often as they are playful. Consider playing with them by having them chase a ball of string. Any game that keeps you out of a kitten's claw range is a good one.

    • 3

      Refrain from teasing your cat or provoking it to attack you. The best way to prevent cat scratch fever is never to get scratched or bitten. If you are antagonizing your cat, it is going to retaliate by scratching or biting you.

    • 4

      Treat your cat if it has fleas. Fleas are thought to give a cat the disease in the first place. It may not be proven, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Your veterinarian will have some flea treatments that you can use to kill any fleas that are on your cat and keep them from coming back.