We’ve all heard stories of unlucky folks becoming ill after being bitten or scratched by a cat. Ted Nugent even wrote a song about it in the ‘80s.

The name Cat-Scratch Fever is actually a disease that is, yes, transmitted by cats but is not serious unless the person who contracts it has a compromised immune system.

Cat-Scratch Disease (CSD) is caused by the bacteria Bartonella henselae. Physicians and researchers tend to agree that it is transmitted to cats via infected fleas. Approximately 20-40% of cats are carriers, depending on what part of the country they reside in and how old they are. Kittens tend to have the higher risk factor.

The cat contracts the bacterium by ingesting these fleas through normal grooming. The cat itself does not become ill, but can pass the bacteria on when biting or scratching a human, usually within a period of a few weeks after ingestion. Biting, (saliva) is the usual mode of transmission, but as an infected cat grooms itself with its tongue, the bacteria can also adhere to the claws and fur as well.

Symptoms include increasing swelling and redness at the site of puncture or scratch two to several days following the incident. Lymph nodes nearby become swollen and sore, and flu-like symptoms and fever may be present. The bite or scratch may also be slow to heal.

If bitten or scratched, wash the area copiously with soap and water. I spray propolis (a product produced by bees and found in health food stores) on any wound I get from the ferals I deal with as a precaution. Honey is a natural antibiotic and promotes quick healing. It has worked well for me.

There is no need to get rid of your pet, as there are simple steps you can take to avoid this disease.

The first line of defense is, of course, flea control for your cat, home and yard, since CSD is initially transmitted (although only to cats it seems) by these annoying parasites. There are many choices now, including spot on treatments with pharmaceuticals as well as organic products.

Avoid being bitten or scratched by encouraging gentle play with your pet. I read recently that boys tend to contract CSD more often than girls, probably because they tend to play rougher with kittens than their counterparts.

Teasing a cat can also bring out the wild side, including the claws. A baited or provoked animal is more likely to bite and scratch. It is a good idea to keep your pet’s claws clipped which has the added bonus of saving some wear and tear on the furniture. The cat can still easily climb a cat tree with clipped claws.

It is always a good idea to wash your hands after handling a pet, especially if it is an indoor-outdoor one. Petting tainted fur and then rubbing your eyes or eating can expose you to any number of unwelcome bacteria, not just the one causing CSD.

Embrace and love your cat, but a bit of caution goes a long way.