Gastroenterologist talks about the dangers of cat scratches

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A gastroenterologist and therapist spoke about the extreme danger of cat scratches. The consequences of microtraumas can be inflammation of the joints, skin, liver and lymph nodes.

When picking up a homeless kitten on the street, you should remember that its claws are dangerous because they can lead to serious pathology. In this case, the skin, joint bags and liver suffer. This is felinosis. In some cases, bartonellosis, called “cat fever,” is observed.

When a yard cat scratches the skin, bacteria can enter along with the dirt, provoking an extremely dangerous inflammatory process. Medical practice identifies eight different types of Bartonella strains that can provoke various infectious pathologies. Stray cats are carriers of Bartonella henselae, the most common bacillus. This infection leads to the development of the disease.

The bacteria are transmitted to cats through the bites of fleas or other insects: flies, gnats, and ticks. Fleas suck blood and get bacilli from a sick animal. This is followed by their reproduction, then they are excreted with feces. Some of the bacteria settle under the cats’ claws.

When a child plays with a stray kitten, there is a risk that the animal will scratch it. Then dangerous bacilli penetrate the fragile child's body. You should not hold a street kitten close to you, especially not pet it and kiss it. It is necessary to protect yourself from dangerous consequences.