Version July 2025
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What is cat scratch disease? —
This is an infection caused by a type of bacteria that is found in many cats. These bacteria don't make the cat sick. But you can get the disease if you are scratched or bitten by an infected cat or flea. You can also get it if an infected cat licks your eyes, mouth, or an open wound on your skin. Young cats are more likely than older cats to infect people.
The infection can cause redness, swelling, and small round bumps near the bite or scratch (picture 1). It also causes swollen "lymph nodes." These are bean-shaped organs found all over the body (figure 1 and figure 2). They make and store cells that fight infections.
What are the symptoms of cat scratch disease? —
The symptoms include:
●Skin swelling or redness that happens 3 to 10 days after being infected – This can look like a bump or pimple.
●Swollen lymph nodes, especially around the head, neck, and arms
Other possible symptoms include:
●Fever
●Headache
●Feeling very tired
●Not feeling hungry
In rare cases, cat scratch disease can cause more serious problems, including:
●Confusion
●Vision problems
●Liver disease
Will I need tests? —
Maybe. If you have symptoms of cat scratch disease, your doctor might order a blood test to check if you have it.
In some cases, a doctor might do a lymph node biopsy. They will remove the node or a small sample of tissue from the node. Then, another doctor will look at the sample under a microscope. Rarely, other fluids or tissues might be tested as well.
How is cat scratch disease treated? —
Although the symptoms might go away in a few weeks without treatment, doctors often prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
How can I try to prevent getting cat scratch disease? —
You can lower your chances of getting it if you:
●Avoid playing with or handling cats in ways that might lead to a bite or scratch.
●Wash your hands after playing with cats.
●Treat cats for fleas, if needed.
●Wash cat bites or scratches right away with running water and soap.
If you have a medical condition that it makes it hard for you to fight infections, such as HIV, avoid cats younger than 1 year old.
Patient education: Animal and human bites (The Basics)
Patient education: Swollen lymph nodes in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Swollen neck nodes in children (The Basics)
Patient education: Animal and human bites (Beyond the Basics)
