Treatment of Cat Scratch Disease (CSD)
In most people, cat-scratch disease clears up without treatment. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help relieve pain and discomfort. Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help. Applying heat compresses to the affected area may also help. If a lymph node is very large or painful, your doctor may drain it to help relieve the pain.

Antibiotics may be needed if your symptoms don’t go away in a month or two. In rare cases, the infection can travel to your bones, liver, or other organs. This requires more intensive treatment.

Should cats be treated?
Most cats with the bacteria do not get sick or need treatment. Rarely, they could develop inflammation of the heart that could make it hard for them to breathe. If you are worried that your cat may be experiencing symptoms from the bacteria, contact your vet.