Cat scratches and bites can cause cat scratch disease, a bacterial infection carried in cat saliva.
The bacteria are passed from a cat to a human after the cat licks its paws then scratches human skin. Rubbing the eyes after petting a cat s fur can also spread cat scratch disease. Young kittens younger than 1 year of age are more likely to scratch, increasing the likelihood of infection. The following are the most common symptoms of cat scratch disease. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently.