Should You Be Worried If Your Cat Scratches You?

Learn the risks, symptoms, and treatment options for cat scratches, and how to protect yourself from cat-scratch disease and related infections.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 25, 2025

Learn the risks, symptoms, and treatment options for cat scratches, and how to protect yourself from cat-scratch disease and related infections.

Cats are beloved companions, but their playful or defensive scratches can sometimes cause more than fleeting discomfort. Cat scratches can break the skin, potentially introduce bacteria, and, in some cases, lead to infection. Understanding the risks, knowing when to seek medical attention, and following proper wound care can help you stay healthy and enjoy your pet safely. This article covers everything you need to know about what happens when your cat scratches you and how best to respond.

Why Cat Scratches Matter

Most cat scratches heal without serious issues, but there are times when a simple scratch can lead to infections such as cat-scratch disease (CSD). Bacteria from a cat’s mouth or claws, particularly Bartonella henselae, can enter the body through broken skin. While most cases are mild and resolve on their own, some scratches—especially in people with weakened immune systems—can lead to complications and require medical attention.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Cat Scratch

Clean the wound immediately: Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and running water for several minutes.
Disinfect the scratch with an antiseptic, such as hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol.
Apply a clean bandage to help prevent further contamination.
Monitor the site daily for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus.

For minor scratches, these steps are usually sufficient. If the wound is deep, bleeds excessively, or shows signs of infection, consult your healthcare provider.

Potential Risks and Infections from Cat Scratches

Cats’ mouths and claws can harbor various bacteria. Infections from cat scratches are rare but possible, and some carry more risk than others. Key possible outcomes include:

Cat-scratch disease (CSD): Caused by Bartonella henselae, this infection can lead to swollen lymph nodes, fever, and fatigue.
Other bacterial infections: Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria are present on cat claws and can enter through skin breaks.

What Is Cat-Scratch Disease?

Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is an infection caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. Both cats and kittens can carry this bacteria, often contracted from flea bites. While cats may not show symptoms, they can transmit the bacteria through scratches, bites, or if their saliva comes into contact with broken skin or mucous membranes.

How Do People Catch Cat-Scratch Disease?

Through a scratch or bite that breaks the skin.
When a cat licks an existing wound, sore, or broken skin.
Contact with kittens, who are more likely to carry the infection.

Symptoms of Cat-Scratch Disease

The incubation period for CSD is usually 3 to 12 days after the scratch or bite, when a small red bump, blister, or pustule may appear at the site. The next symptoms—often appearing about two weeks after exposure—include:

Swollen, painful lymph nodes near the scratch site (most common in the armpits, head, or neck).
Mild fever and fatigue.
Headache.
In rare cases: eye infections, bone pain, or neurological symptoms (mainly in immunocompromised people).

Usually, the lymph nodes feel tender, hot, and may swell up to several centimeters in diameter. If the infection is more severe, the area may become pus-filled or even discharge fluid.

Treatment Options and Home Care

Cat-scratch disease and mild infections often resolve on their own. However, actionable steps can support recovery and minimize complications:

Take over-the-counter pain relievers (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen) for fever or sore lymph nodes.
Apply a warm compress to swollen lymph nodes for comfort.
Rest and drink plenty of fluids.

For most healthy people, the body will eliminate the infection without antibiotics. However, antibiotic treatment may be recommended if:

Symptoms are severe or involve multiple lymph nodes.
There are complications, such as infection of the eyes, bones, or other organs.
The person has a weakened immune system (due to HIV, cancer treatment, organ transplant, or chronic illness).

Common antibiotics for cat-scratch disease include:

Azithromycin
Doxycycline
Clarithromycin
Rifampin
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
Ciprofloxacin

The duration of antibiotic therapy can vary depending on severity but typically ranges from several days to a few weeks.

What If You Have a Compromised Immune System?

If you have a weakened immune system, you are at greater risk for serious complications from cat-scratch disease and other bacterial infections. Complications may include inflammation of the retina or optic nerve, encephalopathy (brain dysfunction), bone infection, or chronic fatigue. In these populations, antibiotics are usually prescribed early to prevent worsening.

Table: Common Complications & Typical Risk Groups

Complication	Symptoms	Who is at Increased Risk
Encephalopathy	Confusion, seizures, altered consciousness	People with weak immune systems
Neuroretinitis	Blurred vision, eye pain	Immunocompromised, rarely others
Osteomyelitis	Persistent bone pain, fever	Immunocompromised
Parinaud syndrome	Red, irritated, painful eye	All ages, higher risk with immune issues

How to Prevent Cat-Scratch Disease and Infections

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling cats, especially after play.
Immediately clean any scratch or bite as described above.
Do not let cats lick open wounds, your mouth, eyes, or broken skin.
Discourage rough play to minimize scratching and biting.
Keep your cat’s claws trimmed.
Use flea control on all cats: Fleas spread Bartonella henselae, even to healthy-looking cats.
Don’t handle feral or stray cats, as they are more likely to harbor infections.

For people with compromised immunity, ideally avoid direct contact with kittens and young cats, as they are more likely to carry the infection.

Preventing Spread Among Cats

Keep cats on year-round flea prevention.
Limit rough play or fighting among cats.
Separate sick cats from healthy ones until fully recovered.

When to Seek Medical Attention

See a healthcare provider if you experience:

Persistent swelling, redness, or heat at the scratch site.
Pus or drainage from the wound.
Enlarged, painful lymph nodes near the scratch or bite.
Fever, headache, or excessive fatigue after being scratched or bitten.
Worsening symptoms or signs of severe infection (confusion, vision changes, severe pain).
If you have a chronic illness or weakened immune system and get scratched or bitten, see your provider promptly.

Prognosis and Recovery

Most people with healthy immune systems recover from cat-scratch disease without lasting problems, even without antibiotics. The infection usually runs its course over several weeks to a few months. Symptoms like swollen lymph nodes may linger, but permanent complications are rare in healthy individuals. For immunocompromised people, the outlook depends on early recognition and prompt treatment with antibiotics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Scratches

Can cat scratches cause other diseases besides cat-scratch disease?

Yes, while cat-scratch disease is the most recognized, scratches can introduce other bacteria such as Staphylococcus or Streptococcus species, although serious complications are rare.

How long should I wait before seeing a doctor after a scratch?

If you have signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus, or fever), or if symptoms worsen over 48 hours, seek medical advice. Immunocompromised individuals should consult a doctor sooner.

Is it safe to have a cat if I’m immunocompromised?

Cats can be safe companions, but people with weakened immune systems should take precautions: avoid rough play, wash after handling cats, and ideally avoid adopting kittens. Regular flea control for pets is essential.

What should I do if my cat bites me?

Cat bites can be even more likely than scratches to cause infection. Clean the wound immediately and seek medical attention, especially if the wound is deep, as puncture wounds can trap bacteria.

Can I prevent my cat from scratching people?

Discourage rough play, keep your cat’s claws trimmed, and redirect biting or scratching behaviors with toys. Never punish a cat physically, as this may increase anxiety and scratching.

Key Takeaways

Most cat scratches are harmless and heal without medical treatment.
Cat-scratch disease is rare, but watch for swollen lymph nodes, redness, or fever after a scratch.
Clean any wound immediately and keep it covered.
Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or if you’re at high risk for infection complications.
Practice good hygiene, gentle play, and flea control to minimize the risk.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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