Abstract

Pasteurella multocida is a gram-negative coccobacillus bacterium found as a commensal in the oropharynx of domestic animals such as cats and dogs and some farm animals. Soft tissue infections and occasionally bacteremia in immunocompromised patients with direct contact with animals are described. We report a 61 year old male with a history of scratches and close contact with domestic cats, with a septic shock originating from a pulmonary focus, requiring mechanical ventilation and vasopressors. Blood cultures disclosed the presence of Pasteurella multocida. He responded successfully to antimicrobials.