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WHAT ARE TREATMENTS Options FOR CAT SCRATCHES?
* Be aware that the recommended treatments of illnesses are always being improved. This website was last update on 11/1/2024. The best treatment option MIGHT have changed since that time.
1. Unlike Cat Bites, for most healthy people antibiotics are not required, they rarely get infected.
2. However, if someone is a diabetic or has a reduced immune system, antibiotics are recommended.
3. Oral Antibiotics
A. Azithromycin 500 mg first day, 250 mg on the next 4 days *
B. Erythromycin (used more with children) *
C. Rifampin PLUS Doxycycline *
D. Bactrim DS one tablet 2 x /day for 7 - 10 days #
E. Sometimes Intravenous antibiotics are required for infections that are not improving
F. Prolonged therapy (eg, weeks to months) is usually necessary for bacteremia to clear.
CAUTION:
1. All medication, including all oral antibiotics and all medications that come in lotions, ointment, and creams have a risk of side effects.
2. Possible Mild side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, itching, and light to moderate skin rash.
3. Possible Severe side effects are a severe skin rash, an anaphylactic allergic reaction (leading to the inability to breathe and subsequent death if not treated rapidly), and Clostridioides difficile infection (C. Diff.) of the colon.
4. Medications such as creams, lotions, and gels should be tested in small dosages in areas of the body that are not easily seen.
Consult “Epocrates.com” for each Specific Medication’s possible “Adverse Reactions.” Side effects are also referred to as “Adverse Reactions.” Epocrates.com will tell you both “common reactions” and “serious reactions.” You will have to create an account, but it is simple, fast, and free.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF AN INFECTED CAT SCRATCH?
The most common symptoms of an Infected Cat Scratch are red, crusted, painless bumps at the area of the cat scratch. Sometimes, there may also be a bump that has pus in it.
WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF CAT SCRATCH INFECTION?
An infected cat scratch is usually caused by a bacterium called Bartonella Hinsdale. About 40% of cats carry B. Henselae at some time in their lives, although most cats with this infection show NO signs of illness. Kittens younger than 1 year are more likely to have B. Hinsdale infection and to spread the germ to people. Kittens are also more likely to scratch and bite while they play and learn how to attack prey.
HOW IS A CAT SCRATCH OR A CAT SCRATCH INFECTION DIAGNOSED?
A Cat Scratch or a Cat Scratch Infection can be diagnosed by taking a careful history and a visual inspection of the wound.