Bartonellosis, Bacterial Infection Caused by Bartonella Henselae (Cat Scratch Disease) in cats
- Occurrence: common
- Location of illness: General/Whole body
When to visit the vet?
Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days
If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.
Definition
Bartonellosis, also known as cat scratch disease, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. This disease commonly occurs in cats and can be transmitted to humans, often through scratches or bites from infected cats.
The most important facts at a glance
Bartonellosis, also known as cat scratch disease, is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, which lives in the red blood cells and blood vessels of cats. Transmission between cats often occurs via the cat flea, which transports the bacterium from one infected cat to the next. Cats, especially young ones, can carry the bacterium without showing symptoms and transmit it to humans through scratches or bites. In humans, swollen lymph nodes and Fever often occur after infection, while cats rarely show symptoms but can develop anemia or Congestive heart failure, among other conditions.
Diagnosis in cats is based on clinical signs and serological tests. In humans, diagnosis is made by detecting antibody or genetic material of the bacterium. Treatment for cats usually consists of antibiotics such as doxycycline, while azithromycin is often used in humans. The prognosis is generally good for both cats and humans, provided the infection is detected and treated early. Preventive measures include flea control, trimming cats’ claws, and avoiding contact with stray cats. Regular veterinary visits and good hygiene are crucial to prevent infections and monitor the cat’s health.
Causes
Bartonella henselae is a gram-negative bacterium that lives within the red blood cells and endothelial cells of blood vessels in cats. Transmission between cats usually occurs via the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), which acts as a vector for the bacterium. When fleas feed on infected cats, they ingest the bacterium and transmit it to other cats during their next bite.
Cats are the natural hosts for Bartonella henselae and can often carry and spread the bacterium for extended periods without clinical symptoms. Young cats under one year of age are more frequently carriers of the bacterium, especially if they live in environments with high cat density and inadequate flea control.
The infection is usually transmitted to humans through a bite or scratch from an infected cat. In rarer cases, contact with infected saliva via open Wounds or mucous membranes can lead to transmission. Typically, the disease develops in humans a few days to weeks after exposure.
Symptoms
In cats, the infection is often subclinical, meaning without visible signs. In some cases, however, symptoms such as Fever, Lethargy, and swollen lymph nodes may occur. However, such symptoms are not specific and can easily be confused with other diseases.
Humans infected with Bartonella henselae often develop a small, red papule at the site of the scratch or bite. Within one to three weeks, the lymph nodes near the Wound may enlarge and become painful. Further symptoms may include Fever, headaches, Lethargy, and muscle or Joint pain. In rare cases, more severe complications such as neuroretinitis or bacillary angiomatosis can occur, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of Bartonellosis in cats is primarily based on clinical signs and the exclusion of other diseases. Since many infected cats are asymptomatic, diagnosis is often supported by serological tests that detect antibody against Bartonella henselae. A positive serological test indicates exposure but not necessarily an active infection.
In humans, diagnosis can be made by detecting antibody in the blood, by PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests for the bacterium’s genetic material, or by a biopsy of the affected lymph nodes. Serological detection of antibody in the blood is the most common method, with high antibody titers potentially indicating an active infection.
Therapy
For cats that show no symptoms, treatment is often not required. In cases where symptoms occur or the cat lives with immunocompromised individuals, antibiotic therapy may be considered. Doxycycline and enrofloxacin are commonly used antibiotics for the treatment of Bartonellosis in cats.
For humans, treatment typically consists of administering antibiotics such as azithromycin, especially if lymph node involvement and systemic symptoms are present. In more severe or complicated cases, longer treatment with various antibiotics may be necessary.
Prognosis and follow-up care
The prognosis for cats with Bartonellosis is generally good, especially if no symptoms are present. Cats that develop symptoms usually respond well to antibiotic therapy.
In humans, the prognosis is also good in most cases, particularly if the infection is detected and treated promptly. Complications are rare and usually affect immunocompromised individuals, in whom the disease can take a more severe course.
Prevention
The prevention of Bartonellosis in cats can be achieved through a combination of good hygiene and flea control. Since fleas are considered vectors of the Bartonella henselae bacteria, it is important to implement regular flea prevention measures. These include applying flea control products, regularly vacuuming living areas, and washing cat blankets and cushions.
Another important prevention measure is minimizing the risk of scratch injuries, especially in cats prone to aggressive play. Trimming claws can help reduce the likelihood of scratches. Additionally, contact with stray cats, which may be infected, should be avoided as much as possible.
Regular veterinary visits are also crucial to monitor the cat’s health status and detect any infections early. Finally, good general hygiene should be practiced by washing hands after playing with cats and thoroughly cleaning any scratch or bite Wounds.