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How long does cat scratch disease last?
Cats, and especially kittens, become infected with the cat scratch bacteria from fleas. But, fleas probably do not spread the bacteria to humans. Cats that are carrying the bacteria don’t get sick and don’t need to be treated. Cat scratch disease often goes away on its own in 2 to 4 months.
What kind of diseases can you get from a cat scratch?
Cat-scratch fever is an infection caused by a kind of bacteria called Bartonella henselae (it’s also sometimes called Bartonella henselae infection). You can get it if a cat that has this type of bacteria licks an open wound on your skin or bites or scratches you.
How serious is cat-scratch disease?
Cat scratch fever usually isn’t serious and generally doesn’t require treatment. Antibiotics can treat people with serious cases of cat scratch fever or weakened immune systems.
Can a cat scratch make a baby sick?
You may find it hard to believe that a small household pet like a cat can cause your child to become ill for a long period of time. A common bacterial infection called cat-scratch disease (CSD) can make your youngster sick for weeks or even months, all because, as the name suggests, a cat has bitten or scratched him.
Can cat-scratch disease be cured?
Generally, cat-scratch disease is not serious. Medical treatment may not be needed. In some cases, treatment with antibiotics such as azithromycin can be helpful. Other antibiotics may be used, including clarithromycin, rifampin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, or ciprofloxacin.
Does anything happen if a cat scratches you?
Risks associated with cat scratches Regardless of age, cat scratches can mean more than just pain and temporary red or discolored marks. These wounds can sometimes sting, bleed, and even become infected. Both feral and domesticated cats may also transmit certain viruses and bacteria when they scratch human skin.