A sharp uptick in infections resulting from animal bites and scratches is being attributed to the surge in pet ownership during the UK’s lockdown period, leading to a record number of cases. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a total of 1,007 cases of pasteurellosis in England in 2025, marking an 8.9% increase from the previous year’s 924 cases in 2024.
This rise in infections reflects the hidden health consequences of the country’s growing fondness for pets, particularly since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, which saw a significant rise in pet ownership among households. The incidence of pasteurellosis has surged by 53% over the past five years, with just 659 cases recorded in 2020.
Pasteurellosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through animal bites and scratches, characterized by rapid swelling and pain. If left untreated, the infection can potentially spread to the blood or joints, resulting in severe complications. Hospital data reveals that 189 patients were treated for pasteurellosis in 2024/25, with an average patient age of 60, including cases involving children under 10.
The primary causative agents of pasteurellosis, Pasteurella multocida, commonly found in cats, and Pasteurella canis, associated with dogs, accounted for nearly 80% of the infections. The escalating infection rates since the pandemic are attributed to the increased number of pet-owning households and the heightened level of daily interaction with pets.
Experts suggest that the rise in cases may be partly due to heightened awareness and improved diagnosis rather than the emergence of more virulent strains. However, health professionals caution that cat bites, in particular, can introduce bacteria deep into tissues, increasing the risk of infections. Women were disproportionately affected by pasteurellosis last year, with higher infection rates observed across all age groups.
Unlike cat-scratch disease, which typically develops over days or weeks, pasteurellosis can manifest within hours of a bite or scratch, potentially leading to serious complications if not promptly treated. Health authorities advise individuals bitten or scratched by animals to thoroughly cleanse the wounds and seek medical attention if symptoms arise rapidly.
Various factors, such as the rise in pet ownership post-lockdown and increased interaction with pets due to remote work arrangements, are believed to have contributed to the spike in cases. Prevention strategies, including understanding pet behavior cues and signs of distress, are recommended to reduce the risk of bites and scratches.
The UKHSA emphasizes that pasteurellosis primarily presents as a local wound infection following an animal bite or scratch, with potential complications such as soft tissue infections, abscesses, and arthritis. The bacteria can also lead to severe conditions like meningitis, ocular infections, and respiratory issues, particularly in individuals with underlying pulmonary ailments.
