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What Cat Diseases Can Be Transmitted to Humans?

When cat diseases are transmissible to humans, they are called zoonoses. In addition to rabies and toxoplasmosis, this also includes infestation with parasites.
Luckily, you can prevent most feline diseases that can be transmitted to humans. Here you will find some information on how you can counteract an infection.

Cat Diseases Dangerous to Humans

One of the typical cat diseases that can also affect humans is rabies. If you are bitten or scratched by a rabid cat, you will transmit the rhabdovirus to you. The velvet paw can become infected with toxoplasmosis pathogens via mice and rats, which can also be transmitted to bipeds. In healthy adults, the disease is usually asymptomatic; spleen and liver problems or heart muscle diseases rarely occur. On the other hand, toxoplasmosis is dangerous for children, young people, and pregnant women. Young people can get meningitis and expectant mothers can miscarry. The child may also be born with disabilities.

Furthermore, parasites, especially cat fleas, represent a possible risk of infection. They can act as intermediate hosts for cat diseases that can be transmitted to humans. For example, some tapeworm species are transported from cats to fleas and from fleas to human hosts. As a result, the liver can be damaged.

This is How You Prevent Infection

Regular vaccinations not only protect your velvet paw but also you from cat diseases such as rabies. You should also deworm your furry friend regularly and protect it from fleas. If the bugs show up anyway, get rid of them as soon as possible.

The best way to prevent toxoplasmosis for you and your family is through hygiene. The pathogens are mainly transmitted via the cat’s feces, but only become active after two to four days. However, if you clean the litter box daily or at least remove the piles, the risk of infection is limited. However, as a precaution, pregnant women should leave the cleaning of the litter box to others.

Mary Allen

Written by Mary Allen

Hello, I'm Mary! I've cared for many pet species including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, fish, and bearded dragons. I also have ten pets of my own currently. I've written many topics in this space including how-tos, informational articles, care guides, breed guides, and more.

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