How To Treat And Prevent Cat Scratch Disease

Hot Compress

There will typically be a red bump or blister where the cat scratched a victim of cat scratch disease. This red bump is infected with the B. henselae bacteria, and it will be sore and may feel hot and painful. There may be pus inside the lesion as well. A hot compress will help the bump drain and heal faster, as well as reducing pain. Soak a clean facecloth in warm to hot water and apply it to the lesion for twenty to thirty minutes several times a day. Wash the bump with antibacterial soap to keep the area clean. When the lesion begins to drain, cover it with a sterile piece of gauze. A used compress must either be discarded or washed thoroughly with detergent and hot water before using again. Patients should always thoroughly wash their hands with antibacterial soap and hot water after contact with the lesion.

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Rest Period

Cat scratch disease is typically not serious for most individuals, and medical treatment may not be necessary. However, the bacteria can cause some individuals to feel tired. It can also cause swollen lymph nodes under the arms, groin, and neck. It can take up to a few months for lymph nodes to return to normal size. If only mild symptoms are present, cat scratch disease can be treated with rest. This doesn't mean constant bed rest. It just means the patient shouldn't do strenuous activities. If children tire quickly, they should be encouraged to play quietly. Resting gives the body a chance to fight the infection and recover naturally. One instance of the disease generally confers lifelong immunity. This is why many cat scratch fever victims are children. Not only are young children more likely to be scratched by a cat, but many individuals are immune by the time they are adults.

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