What is Bartonella infection?

Cat scratch disease (CSD), also called cat scratch fever, is a bacterial infection caused by Bartonella henselae, which is generally spread to people through cat bites or scratches. Most healthy people do not develop any symptoms, and those with a mild infection usually get better without any treatment.

Can dogs transmit Bartonella to humans?

Symptoms of Bartonella Infection in Dogs and Humans Bartonella infection is a zoonotic disease and can be transmitted between dogs, cats, and human beings.

Can Bartonella in cats be cured?

Treatment. Doxycycline, amoxicillin, enrofloxacin, and rifampin given for a long duration (4-6 weeks) may be effective in reducing the level of bacteremia in the infected cat or dog. The ability of any antibiotic or antibiotic combination to completely clear B. henselae from the blood stream has not been established.

What does Bartonella do to the body?

Historically, the most common causative agents for human disease have been Bartonella bacilliformis, Bartonella quintana, and Bartonella henselae. These infections cause a variety of manifestations from mild symptoms such as fever, headache, and malaise to more severe symptoms such as hallucinations [3,5,6,7,8].

Is Bartonella a parasite or bacteria?

Bacteria of the genus Bartonella are parasites that can be transmitted to humans via insect bites and animal scratches, resulting in an infection known as “bartonellosis.” Cat-scratch disease and trench fever are forms of bartonellosis caused by different Bartonella species infecting humans.

Do cats get sick from Bartonella?

Bartonella infection may cause chronic inflammatory conditions in cats, such as stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), and inflammatory bowel disease. Some cats may carry the disease but appear to be completely healthy. Bartonellosis is primarily transmitted to cats by fleas.

Can humans get Bartonella from cats?

People can get CSD from the scratches of domestic or feral cats, particularly kittens. The disease occurs most frequently in children under 15. Cats can be infested with infected fleas that carry Bartonella bacteria. These bacteria can be transmitted from a cat to a person during a scratch.