Cat Scratch Disease and Animal-Transmitted Infections in Lagos

The Health Risks of Lagos Pet Ownership

Cats, dogs, and other pets bring joy and companionship — but also carry bacteria, parasites, and viruses that can cause significant illness in their owners. As pet ownership grows among Lagos's middle class, awareness of animal-transmitted infections (zoonoses) becomes increasingly important.

Cat Scratch Disease

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Caused by Bartonella henselae bacteria, transmitted by cat scratches or bites — particularly from kittens. Symptoms appear 3–14 days after exposure: a small papule or pustule at the scratch site, followed by swollen, tender lymph nodes in the region (typically armpit for arm scratches). Low-grade fever and malaise may accompany. In healthy individuals, it usually resolves without treatment within a few weeks. In immunocompromised patients (HIV, cancer, steroids), it can cause serious systemic disease requiring antibiotic treatment.

Dog Bites: Always Take Seriously

• Rabies — Nigeria has endemic rabies in its dog population; any dog bite from an animal of unknown vaccination status requires post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) immediately. Do not wait for symptoms — rabies is virtually 100% fatal once symptomatic
• Pasteurella infection — bacteria in cat and dog mouths cause rapidly developing cellulitis after bites
• Capnocytophaga — rare but serious infection from dog saliva, particularly in those without a spleen

What to Do After an Animal Bite or Scratch

1. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 5 minutes
2. Apply antiseptic
3. Seek medical assessment — even small puncture wounds from cats frequently become infected
4. Rabies PEP must be started immediately if rabies risk cannot be excluded

FXMed's Mobile Response

Our mobile healthcare team can assess animal bite wounds at your home, initiate antibiotic treatment where needed, and advise on and facilitate rabies PEP. Contact us immediately after any significant animal bite.