Cat-Scratch Disease in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Cat-scratch disease (also known as cat-scratch fever) is a bacterial infection that causes swelling and pain in the lymph nodes and loss of appetite. In most cases, it occurs after a scratch, bite, or lick from an infected cat or kitten.

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe. They can include fever, headache, and fatigue. Your child may also have skin swelling or redness that is like a bump or pimple. Lymph nodes, especially around your child's head, neck, and arms, may also be swollen. Symptoms may not appear for several days after the bite or scratch and may last for several weeks.

Although cat-scratch disease usually goes away without treatment, acetaminophen (Tylenol) for the fever and a warm cloth on the skin bumps may help. Antibiotics may be used in some children to help with recovery.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for pain. Do not use ibuprofen if your child is less than 6 months old unless the doctor gave you instructions to use it. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• A warm cloth on red or swollen skin bumps may help.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child is confused or can't think clearly.
• Your child's eyes become red or your child appears to have vision changes.
• Your child has worse symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child does not get better as expected.