Infected cat scratch or zit next to cat scratch?

[fuzzypeach443]

So two days ago I was scratched by my cat on my chin. Today I woke up and I had a huge lump around/next to the scratch... I put hot water on it thinking it was just a zit and to open up the pore but i couldn't find a zit. I'm not sure if i should go see a doctor but if it's just a zit i don't want to go, so has anyone ever had a similar problem and was it an infection? Btw it is itchy and about the size of my thumb nail but is not completely on the scratch.

[Ricobord]

Sounds consistent with Bartonella, caused by b.henselae, the bacteria that causes cat scratch fever.  I have Bartonella and you don't want it. It almost always causes anxiety.  It can also cause stomach pain, sore soles in your feet, and red bumps or a striated rash.  If you just got infected, a month or two of antibiotics should clear it up.  They usually use rifampin or levaquin.

[FurballsMom]

I wish I knew what to say if you're unable to get to a doctor.  I know that if you're a minor you don't have full control over when to see the doctor and when not to.  Have you got any tea tree oil or other essential oils in the house?  Those are great for natural disinfectants and can be used on the skin safely.  Dr Bronner's castile soap is great for washing whenever you need a soap with a natural disinfectant in it.  You could try something like that to keep the area clean and disinfected.  

That's not going to be a full guarantee that there won't still be problems, because a cat can scratch pretty deeply, depending on how forceful they scratch and even if it's intentional or just accidental because their little nails needed a trim.  So, you will still need to watch for symptoms over the next few days.  It's certainly better than doing nothing.

[fuzzypeach443]

Okay so i've come against another problem... the space that i though was a zit turned into a blister that clear liquid comes out of. I am not sure what this means but i showed my parents and they insisted it was a zit. I did not end up visiting the doctor due to circumstances i would rather not share :) please respond if you have an answer. I would greatly appreciate it!

[fuzzypeach443]

If it's still there tomorrow I plan to go to the doctor. I hope it's nothing as serious as what you went through though. Thank you very much for the help! :)