Bartonella in Cats – An Underestimated Zoonotic Risk?*

 Bartonella in Cats

Bartonella spp. infections are common in domestic cats and transmission is thought to arise primarily from infected fleas. Bartonellosis is a zoonotic disease with a variety of clinical presentations in humans that range from mild signs to severe disease, which may be fatal, in immunocompromised people. There is potential for widespread exposure in the UK pet owning population. The main route of zoonotic infections was traditionally thought to be via cat bites and scratches and, although human infection can and does occur this way, exposure to flea dirt through a variety of other routes is likely to play a more important role. This is especially true among veterinary professionals and those living with flea household infestations. This article discusses Bartonella in cats, human bartonellosis and measures that can be taken to limit zoonotic risk while maintaining the human-animal bond.