What makes cat scratches itch

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For more information, please see our Privacy Policy. Click Yes to help us continue to make these improvements. Our Other Sites Close. Our Other Sites. The skin and coat may also be greasy and have excessive dandruff Eosinophilic granuloma complex — see eosinophilic granuloma complex in cats — this is a variety of skin lesions indolent ulcer that affects the upper lip, and eosinophilic plagues or eosinophilic granulomas that can affect various areas of the body and also the oral cavity.

They are usually associated with allergies. All of these manifestations of pruritus look completely different, but can all be caused by the same things — in most instances the cause is fleas but other parasites and allergies can be involved.

Some cats may have more than one manifestation of disease present simultaneously eg, indolent ulcer and symmetrical hair loss. What can cause cats to itch other than fleas? This could happen 3 to 10 days after the bite or scratch.

The sore or blister may take a long time to heal. An infection of the lymph nodes can also develop. This happens most often in the glands closest to the scratch or bite. If the scratch is on your arm, the glands in your armpit or near your elbow may become tender and swollen. Cat-scratch disease is caused by bacteria that cats carry in their saliva. They likely get the bacteria from fleas. They can spread it to their paws or fur when they lick themselves.

You can get cat-scratch disease from a cat biting, scratching, or licking you. You can also get the bacteria in your eyes if you rub them after petting a cat that has the bacteria on its fur. Many people who get cat-scratch disease do not remember being scratched or bitten by a cat. Your doctor will examine the bite or scratch and ask you about your symptoms. He or she will check your lymph nodes for swelling or tenderness.

If a diagnosis is not clear, they may order a blood test. Young cats are more likely to carry the bacteria than older cats. Households with kittens have higher rates of infection. If the kittens have fleas, the infection rate is even higher. If you are planning to adopt a cat, consider a cat that is at least 1 year old.

In most people, cat-scratch disease clears up without treatment. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help relieve pain and discomfort. Ibuprofen two brands: Motrin, Advil or naproxen one brand: Aleve can help. If you have an open wound, do not let your cat lick or touch it to prevent the spread of any kind of bacteria. Sometimes, deep cat scratches will produce swelling and itching sensations, but will not be infected by the Bartonella henselae bacteria. To determine whether you have CSD or not, make sure to monitor your symptoms for two weeks after the scratch and pay attention to how your scratch is healing.

If you do get diagnosed with CSD, check over your cat to make sure it is still healthy and happy and unaffected by this irritating bacterial infection after treating your symptoms.

Pet Wellbeing's own Dr. Jan has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years. Since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, she's founded two veterinary clinics and lectured extensively on pet herbal therapy, nutraceuticals, acupuncture, rehabilitation and pain management. Jan has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities, helping us to formulate all of our supplements.

She is an essential part of Pet Wellbeing. And lucky for us, she's only one of the great team of people who make Pet Wellbeing so special. Just like humans, our furry companions often experience mobility issues later in life. Many pets develop arthritis, which makes it painful to navigate stairs and furniture.

All of a sudden, owners might notice their senior pet bumping into the coffee table or tripping over objects left on the floor. Stiff joints, visual impairments and other disabilities are all normal parts of the aging process. Sneezing, wheezing, itching—these allergy symptoms are all too common among humans.

Pet food manufacturers make eating healthy a lot more difficult than it needs to be for our furry friends. Cat scratch disease is caused by a bacterium carried in the cat saliva. The symptoms of cat scratch disease may look like other conditions or medical problems.

Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. Diagnosis is based on a complete history, including a history of being scratched by a cat or kitten, a physical exam, and sometimes blood tests. Avoid being scratched or bitten by cats or kittens.

If scratched or bitten, wash the area right away with soap and water. Do not allow cats to lick wounds you may have. If a cat scratch or bite becomes red or swollen and you develop flu-like symptoms, including headache, decreased appetite, fatigue, joint pain, or fever, contact your healthcare provider.

Health Home Conditions and Diseases. What causes cat scratch disease? Who is at risk for cat scratch disease?