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How can cat scratch disease spread to humans?

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Young boy in a red shirt smiles while hugging a fluffy tabby cat, their faces close together. — cats as pets A boy hugging a pet cat.

Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection caused by Bartonella henselae that can be transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected cat. While many cats infected with the bacterium show no symptoms, approximately 30 percent may carry it.12

To minimize the risk of infection, it is important to practice good hygiene when interacting with pets. You should thoroughly clean any scratch or bite wounds immediately. Maintaining good hygiene and taking proactive steps to care for your cat's health can significantly reduce the risk of contracting zoonotic diseases.12