Cat scratch fever not just a song
Ask the Vet
Q: Is cat scratch fever a real disease? We heard the old song, and it just made us curious. T.B., Farragut
A: Yes, cat scratch fever is a real disease. It is caused by a bacteria called Bartonella, and the disease can affect people, cats and dogs.
Fleas carry the bacteria, Bartonella, and it is excreted in the flea’s waste called “flea dirt.” When cats have fleas, they often have flea dirt on their body. When the cat scratches himself, he can get some of the flea dirt on his claws. The cat becomes infected by scratching himself with his own Bartonella-infected claw.
The same cat can scratch their owner, which can result in humans being infected. Dogs can also get Bartonella, although it is a less common species of Bartonella.
Cats ill with Bartonella may experience fever, lymph node enlargement and other chronic inflammatory conditions. It is speculated that some cats harbor the organism and never show clinical signs.
There are multiple types of blood tests available for cats suspected of having Bartonella.
Since fleas are the carrier for Bartonella, disease rates are higher in areas of heat and humidity where fleas thrive.
This includes East Tennessee. Strict flea control for your cat is therefore very important. If your cat is not on flea control, please speak to your veterinarian; he or she can guide you as to what is best for your cat.
If you have questions about your pet, you may e-mail Dr. Myers at lenoircityac@gmail.com
