While checking out the http://www.kidshealth.org/ link. Which I would recommend to every parent with a computer. I found
an article on Cat Scratch Disease.

They describe it as: Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection that typically causes swelling of the lymph nodes. It usually results from the scratch, lick, or bite of a cat — more than 90% of people with the illness have had some kind of contact with cats, often with kittens.

I found this kind of interesting because our daughter Angela has a new kitten. Whom she calls "Princess." This kitten is a major nail pushing, people scratching machine. I have never known a kitten to scratch and claw like this.

My leg looks like a cat clawing post. I don't think there is a place on my body that this kitten has not put a nail into.

We are all familiar with the old song "Cat Scratch Fever." Or most of us older kids are. (giggle) I just never knew it was a real illness and that kittens often carry it. Usually a flea will infect the cat or kitten. Then when the child plays with the animal. The animal transfers the illness to the child by scratching or biting the child or adult.

It is not usually a big deal to children and regular antibiotics will clear up the problems along with Tylenol or motrim as a mild pain reliever.

So the good news is you can keep the family pet.
If your child gets scratched or bitten by an animal.
Just wash the area with soap and water, put on an antiseptic if you have one. Unless the child's lymph nodes become really swollen and red. No treatment is necessary. But if the lymph nodes do swell it is a good idea to get a Doctor to check things out. Let the doctor know that you have a new pet or a cat in the house.

To read up and find out more on Cat Scratch Disease
go to: http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/cat_scratch.html It is always good to know the issues that come along with children and pets.