Cat Scratch Disease

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is an infection caused by bacteria in a cat's mouth. You can get CSD by being scratched, licked, or bitten by an infected cat. The germs usually spread after the cat licks its paws then scratches or bites human skin.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Seek care immediately if:

• You have severe pain in your stomach, muscles, bones, or joints.
• You have severe pain in the lymph nodes in your neck, armpit, or groin.
• You have seizures, headaches, or cannot think clearly.

Call your doctor if:

• You have a fever, sore throat, or headache.
• You notice swelling in your neck, armpit, or groin.
• You have stomach, muscle, or joint pain.
• You have a skin rash, itching, or swelling after you take your medicine.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

• Medicines may be given to help treat a bacterial infection or decrease pain, fever, and swelling.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• rifampin
• Azithromycin Dose Pack
• Zithromax
• Doxy 100
• Doryx

Prevent CSD:

• Always wash your hands after you handle or pet a cat. Use soap and water, and wash for at least 20 seconds. Wash the front and back of each hand, and in between all fingers. Use the fingers of one hand to scrub under the nails of the other hand. Rinse under warm, running water. Dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel. Use hand sanitizer that contains alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Have your cat treated for fleas. Fleas can spread the germ from cat to cat.
• Do not allow your cat to lick an open wound on your skin.
• Take care when you play with cats to avoid bites or scratches. Avoid rough play.
• If you get scratched, licked, or bitten by a cat, wash the affected area with clean water and soap right away.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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