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Cat scratches and bites can cause cat scratch disease, a bacterial infection carried in cat saliva. The bacteria are passed from a cat to a human after the cat licks its paws then scratches human skin. Rubbing the eyes after petting a cat's fur can also spread cat scratch disease. Young kittens less than 1 year of age are more likely to scratch, increasing the likelihood of infection.

Symptoms & Causes

What are the symptoms of cat scratch disease?

The following are the most common symptoms of cat scratch disease. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

  • A cat bite or scratch that doesn't heal or worsens over time.
  • They can be painful or swollen glands, especially under the armpits.
  • Your child may have flu-like symptoms, including headache, lethargy, decreased appetite, fatigue, joint pain, or a fever.
  • Your child may get a body rash.

Diagnosis & Treatments

How do we treat cat scratch disease?

Treatment may include:

  • blood tests
  • antibiotics (to treat the infection)
  • supportive care (to treat the symptoms that result from the infection)

Programs & Services

Programs

Children's Hospital Primary Care Center (CHPCC)

Program

Boston Children's Primary Care at Longwood

Departments

Neurology

Department

The Department of Neurology cares for infants, children, and adolescents with all types of neurologic and developmental disorders.
Best Childrens Hospital US News & World Report Honor Roll 2023-24 Badge