What can you get infected with after a cat bite? - briefly
A cat bite can lead to infection with Pasteurella multocida, which is common in cats and often causes skin infections in humans. Additionally, cat scratches can transmit Bartonella henselae, the bacteria responsible for Cat-scratch disease, though this is less common with bites.
What can you get infected with after a cat bite? - in detail
A cat bite, while seemingly innocuous, can lead to several serious infections due to the unique composition of bacteria in a cat's mouth. The primary concern is Pasteurella multocida, a bacterium that thrives in the oral cavity of cats and accounts for approximately 50-70% of all cat bite infections. This organism can cause severe localized infections, characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes even pus formation around the affected area.
In addition to Pasteurella multocida, other potential pathogens that may be transmitted through a cat bite include Streptococcus species, Staphylococcus aureus, and anaerobic bacteria such as Bacteroides and Fusobacterium. These organisms can also result in significant localized infections, with symptoms similar to those caused by Pasteurella multocida.
Moreover, cat bites carry the risk of transmitting zoonotic diseases, which are illnesses that can be passed from animals to humans. One notable example is Cat-Scratch Disease (CSD), caused by Bartonella henselae, a bacterium that resides in cats and is often transferred through scratches rather than bites. However, it's essential to recognize that even though CSD is more commonly associated with cat scratches, it can still be transmitted via a bite. Symptoms of CSD include swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue, and headache, typically appearing 3-14 days post-exposure.
Another zoonotic disease to consider is Tetanus, caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which can enter the body through puncture wounds like a cat bite. While cats are not primary carriers of this bacterium, the environment in which the bite occurs could introduce it. Tetanus is a serious condition that affects the nervous system, leading to muscle spasms and stiffness.
In summary, a cat bite can expose individuals to a range of bacteria that may cause localized infections or even transmit zoonotic diseases. Prompt medical attention is crucial for proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of complications.