Cat cuddling and cat-scratch disease.

A new study reveals that , cuddling a cat could give you an infection that could even kill you.The infection linked to cat scratches is aptly termed Cat-scratch disease, which can be fatal in some cases. Cat-scratch disease is an illness that results in intense fever, headaches, pustules and inflamed lymph nodes. The infection can progress drastically in rare instances leading to complications of the brain or heart and even result in death. "Cat-scratch disease, causes a significant number of annual infections, some of which can lead to encephalitis as well as endocarditis. Humans can risk contracting the disease just by kissing or cuddling cats, or by being scratched or bitten by them. The illness is caused by a bacteria called Bartonella henselae, which is transmitted to cats by fleas. According to a survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), noted kittens and stray cats were especially susceptible to carrying the harmful bacteria. The report showed that each year, about 12,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with cat-scratch disease and 500 require hospitalization. Cat-scratch is preventable if hygiene plays a part in animal handling,interactions and proper pet care. Cat owners should take the following precautions; 1) wash their hands after petting their cats. 2 ) clean bites and scratches with soap and water . 3)prevent contact of your cats with strays. 4) regular flea control. When bitten or scratched by your cat, wash area with soap and water and visit your doctor immediately.