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Cat Scratch Treatment: Prevent Cat Scratch Disease - Qu

20. December 2024
Section 1: The Risk of Rabies from Cat BitesIt's crucial to be aware that being bitten or scratched

Section 1: The Risk of Rabies from Cat Bites

It's crucial to be aware that being bitten or scratched by a cat can potentially lead to rabies. If there's any suspicion that the cat may be carrying the rabies virus—whether through a bite, scratch, or even being licked on an open wound—it's essential to receive the vaccine. Rabies is a highly contagious and often fatal disease caused by the rabies virus, affecting both humans and animals. It spreads widely and has a high mortality rate. It is advisable to visit a health station for wound care and vaccination against rabies.

Section 2: The Risk of Cat Scratch Disease from Cat Bites

Cat scratch disease, also known as cat scratch fever, is caused by the bacteria responsible for the disease. It's a common illness worldwide, affecting over 40,000 people annually, predominantly young adults and children, with no gender disparity. It's more prevalent during warmer seasons. Approximately 10% of pet cats and 33% of stray cats carry the Bartonella henselae, the bacterium that causes the disease. This bacterium can remain in a healthy carrier state for months to years and is transmitted between cats via fleas. Younger pet cats are more susceptible to the disease, and 90% of human infections are associated with cat scratches or bites. Other potential sources of infection include dog, rabbit, and monkey bites, and even fish bone injuries have been reported as causes.

1. Symptoms

Cat scratch disease can present with a variety of symptoms, often leading to misdiagnosis. Within 3 to 7 days after being scratched or bitten by a cat, the affected area may develop redness, blisters, papules, scabs, pustules, or small boils. Lymphangitis may also occur. In severe cases, lymph nodes can swell, particularly in the neck, groin, and armpits, and later, there may be significant proliferation of reticuloendothelial cells. Symptoms can include lowgrade fever, chills, headache, fatigue, cough, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Most cases are selflimiting and resolve without treatment within 3 weeks to several months. Cat scratch disease can also be categorized into various clinical types based on its primary manifestations, such as hepatosplenomegaly and abdominal pain in the liverspleen type, and seizures, progressive coma, and rapid recovery of consciousness in the encephalitic type, with eye symptoms such as optic neuritis, conjunctivitis, or retinal vasculitis being predominant in some cases.

2. Treatment

As of now, there is no specific cure for cat scratch disease. If symptoms arise, immediate medical attention and symptomatic treatment are recommended. Research from 1988 indicates that the Bartonella henselae responsible for cat scratch disease is sensitive to various antibiotics, such as gentamicin. However, clinical studies have shown that most antibiotics are ineffective or have minimal effect. Rifampin, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole are the three oral medications with the best results, while gentamicin is the preferred intravenous option. It is generally believed that individuals with normal and strong immune systems can avoid antibiotic treatment for mild to moderate cases of cat scratch disease. In cases where lymph nodes become significantly enlarged, painful, and suppurative, incision and drainage may be necessary.

3. SelfProtection

To prevent diseases transmitted by pets, it's important to avoid contact with wild animals and not to disturb their natural habitats. High standards of pet hygiene are necessary, including regular health checks, regular flea, tick, and mite control, and vaccination. Regular bathing of pets is also recommended to prevent environmental contamination from their feces. Pet living environments should be disinfected regularly. If a pet becomes ill, it should be treated promptly to eliminate the source of infection. Pets should not be allowed to lick human wounds, and cats and dogs' claws should be regularly trimmed. Hands should be washed immediately after contact with pets. Uncooked meat and offal should not be fed to cats and dogs, and fruits and vegetables should be washed to prevent infection through the mouth. Pregnant women and asthmatics are advised to avoid contact with cats and dogs.

Tip: For more information on cat bites, click here to read "What to Do If You're Bitten by a House Cat."

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