Cat Scratch Fever, huh? I guess that's why the Doc took my temperature. Well so far the Alleve and the Augmentin between them seem to be keeping the swelling down, and my hand is markedly less sore than it was this morning. So it looks like I'll survive this one. I still have 8 more days on the antibiotic, which I intend to finish however well I seem to be healing.

There's a lesson in here somewhere. Like don't pet strange cats in your kitchen.

Thanks All, for your kind words! You guys are the best!