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How Much Do You Know About Cat Scratch Disease?

Cats make wonderful pets. That's why there are millions of pet cats in the U.S. But cats can sometimes cause an illness called cat scratch disease. Find out more about this illness by taking this true-false quiz.

1. You will get cat scratch disease (CSD) if a cat or kitten scratches you.
2. CSD is an allergic reaction to touching a cat.
3. A cat that is infected with the CSD bacteria is lethargic and weak.
4. Fever is the main symptom of CSD.
5. CSD symptoms last about 1 week.
6. You should not keep a cat as a pet if you have a weakened immune system.
7. Antibiotics are the main treatment for CSD.
8. One way to prevent CSD if your family wants a cat is to get an adult cat instead of a kitten.

Medical Reviewers:

  • Felson, Sabrina, MD
  • Sather, Rita, RN
  • Wojcik, Stacey, MBA, BSN