DEAR DR. GOTT: I have been diagnosed with cat-scratch fever. Could you explain the disease and its side effects? How long will it last, and what treatment is available?
DEAR READER: Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is the result of a bacterial infection known as Bartonella henselae. Surprisingly, about 40 percent of all cats carry the bacteria in their saliva at some point in their lives, with kittens being more likely to be infected than adult cats; however, neither commonly show any signs of illness.
Most people contract CSD through bites and scratches; however, it is also possible to contract it by petting an infected feline and then rubbing your eyes.
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