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Cat scratch disease (CSD) is caused by an infection of the bacteria Bartonella henselae which is often carried in cat saliva. When a cat scratches or bites you the bacteria is transferred into your blood stream causing CSD. You can also contract CSD by allowing a cat to lick your eyes or an open wound. The bacteria are transferred to cats by fleas; however, for humans, a bite from an infected flea does not produce CSD.
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