Suspected Pasteurella Infection Associated With Catnip Exposure Leading to Finger Extensor Tendon Rupture: A Case Report

Pasteurella species commonly cause soft tissue infections following direct animal bites or scratches. However, transmission through indirect contact with contaminated materials remains underrecognized. We report an unusual, suspected case of Pasteurella multocida infection acquired through contact with catnip contaminated by feline saliva, resulting in progressive soft tissue infection and extensor tendon rupture in the hand of an otherwise healthy individual. Operative debridement, tendon repair, culture-directed antibiotic therapy, and structured occupational therapy resulted in functional recovery with grip strength equal to the uninjured hand, a residual 37° total extension deficit, and a Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score of 4.55% at four months postinjury. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing atypical transmission routes and implementing timely interventions to prevent severe complications.