Yes, cat scratch fever is a real disease. The medical term for cat scratch fever is cat scratch disease (CSD), and it is caused by a bacterium called Bartonella henselae. The disease is spread to humans through the scratch or bite of an infected cat. The disease is not usually serious, and most people with cat scratch fever recover without any complications.
Symptoms of cat scratch fever can include fever, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, headache, and a pimple or blister at the site of the scratch or bite. In rare cases, cat scratch fever can lead to more severe symptoms, such as an infection of the brain, heart, or eyes.
If you suspect that you or someone you know has cat scratch fever, it is important to seek medical attention from a healthcare provider. Treatment for cat scratch fever may include antibiotics and over-the-counter pain relievers. Additionally, you can reduce your risk of getting cat scratch fever by washing any scratches or bites from cats with soap and water and avoiding rough play with cats.