Cats are wonderful pets with beautiful glowing colours, but have you ever wondered whether it is safe to get a cat scratch?
Scratching is a natural part of a cat’s behaviour, but it can be dangerous to humans.
Cats scratch to mark their territory and to remove the dead outer layer of their claws. While scratching is an essential part of a cat’s behaviour, some scratches can be very dangerous to humans.
For many of us, pets are part of the family. However, just like with any other family member, there are some things that you should know about them to maintain a healthy relationship and avoid injury.
Cats are no exception to this rule; even though they can be adorable and cuddly at times, they also have their more dangerous moments.
Scratching is a normal behavior for cats, one they’ve been engaging in for 8,000 years, since their wildcat ancestors first started clawing at tree bark.
It’s an instinctive behavior that cats can’t control, and it’s how they’re able to mark their territory, stretch their muscles, relieve stress, and even hone their hunting skills.
Cats are territorial creatures. They stake out their territory and like to keep it that way, so they’ll often scratch if you invade them or even just get near the edge of this area with your hands or feet.
If a cat is sleeping on something, such as a couch or chair, be mindful not to sit down without first asking for permission!
Otherwise, these animals will find an opportunity at some point in time to protect their spot from what they see as an intruder – which could mean scratches all over your body!
Cat Scratch Disease
Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted from cat to human; it’s usually harmless but in some cases may be serious.
A cat-scratch disease is a bacterial infection caused by the Bartonella henselae bacteria. The most common symptom of this disease is a red, swollen lymph node near where the scratch was received.
This can happen anytime from 3 to 75 days after exposure and will often go away on its own without treatment in adults.
It’s important for parents to know that their children are more likely to develop complications because they have not built up immunity yet and should seek medical attention if they think their child has been exposed.
Cats are wonderful pets. They are intelligent, inquisitive animals that can provide a sense of companionship and security for their owners.
There is no denying the benefits of having a feline friend in your life, but there may be some risks involved as well. One risk cat owners need to be aware of is Cat Scratch Disease (CSD).
Symptoms of cat-scratch disease
In the United States, cat-scratch disease is considered rare and most often occurs in children. However, it’s possible for adults to contract this illness as well; especially if they have a weakened immune system.
The symptoms of cat-scratch disease may include fever, headache and swollen lymph nodes around your neck or underarms.
Cat scratch disease can also cause an infection of the lining of the brain or spinal cord called encephalitis. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after being scratched by a cat, be sure to contact your health care provider right away!
One of the main symptoms of this infection is fever which will usually last around three weeks.
Other possible signs include: swollen lymph nodes in the neck area (lymphadenopathy), headache, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, weight loss/ general weakness (lethargy) as well as muscle pains – mainly located on the upper body.
Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is a relatively common bacterial infection spread by cats. It is also referred to as cat-scratch fever and is caused by a bacteria called Bartonella henselae.
The disease is easily treatable with antibiotics.
Cats can transmit the bacteria to humans through their claws, which are coated with a protein or sugar that creates an environment conducive for bacterial growth.
Infected cats may scratch people as they groom themselves and then pass on the infection by grooming again. The bacteria are not spread from person to person.
If you suspect your cat has scratched you, be sure to wash your hands with hot, soapy water right after you pet it. (This will eliminate the possibility of you passing the disease on to others).
If your child was scratched, wash his or her hands with hot, soapy water, and your hands, too. If you have a cat, have him or her checked for the disease by a vet.
Since cat-scratch disease, like AIDS, can be spread to humans, your cat may need to be quarantined for a period of time.
Cat-scratch disease treatment
Cat-scratch disease is not a very common ailment, but it can be serious for some people. The bacteria that causes cat scratch disease is called Bartonella henselae and this bacterium lives in the saliva of cats.
Usually, humans get cat-scratch disease by being scratched or bitten by an infected cat. In most cases, symptoms do not appear at all, or they are mild enough to go unnoticed.
A more serious infection usually occurs when the person has an impaired immune system such as those with leukemia or HIV/AIDS; these individuals are at risk of developing complications from their illness and may need antibiotics to reduce the chances of developing potentially life-threatening illnesses like meningitis or endocarditis.
The best way to treat cat-scratch disease is through antibiotics. Early treatment will help prevent complications such as lymphadenitis, organ system failure, and even death.
Last Words
A cat-scratch disease is caused by a bacteria which is spread by cats. While the disease is treatable, it can become lethal if left untreated, and it is best to use a combination of antibiotics to cure it.