7 diseases that domestic cats can transmit and how to avoid them
Although cats are beloved pets by millions of people around the world, it is important to keep in mind that, like any other animal, they can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. These conditions, known as zoonoses, should not cause alarm if proper hygiene, regular veterinary visits, and responsible animal handling are maintained. Below, we present seven diseases that can be transmitted from cats to people and how to prevent each one.
READ: This is the emergency kit you should have during the rainy season.1.- Toxoplasmosis: This is an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Cats become infected by eating raw meat or small animals, and can excrete the parasite cysts in their feces.
- Prevention: Avoid cleaning the litter box if you're pregnant or immunocompromised; wear gloves if necessary and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Don't feed your cat raw meat, and see a veterinarian if you suspect an infection.
2.- Cat scratch disease: Caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, this disease is transmitted through scratches or bites. It can cause swollen lymph nodes, fever, and general malaise.
- Prevention: Avoid rough play with cats, especially kittens. Wash any scratches or bites thoroughly with soap and water. Control fleas on your pet, as they carry the bacteria.
3.- Ringworm (Dermatophytosis): This is a fungal skin infection that can spread easily between animals and humans. It manifests as circular, red, scaly lesions.
- Prevention: Don't share brushes or towels with your pet. Take your cat to the vet if you notice hair loss or skin lesions. Keep your home clean, especially in areas where your pet rests.
4.- Toxocariasis: Cats can harbor intestinal parasites such as Toxocara cati, whose eggs are eliminated through feces. In humans, the infection can affect organs such as the eyes or liver.
- Prevention: Deworm your cat regularly. Pick up cat droppings wearing gloves and keep litter boxes out of reach of children. Wash your hands after cleaning.
5.- Campylobacteriosis: This bacterial infection can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Cats, especially young ones, can be carriers without showing symptoms.
- Prevention: Always wash your hands after handling your cat or its litter box. Keep food refrigerated and don't allow your pet on surfaces where food is prepared.
6.- Rabies: Although uncommon in domestic cats, rabies remains a fatal disease. It is transmitted through bites and affects the nervous system.
- Prevention: Vaccinate your cat against rabies according to the schedule established by your veterinarian. Avoid contact with wild animals.
7.- Salmonellosis: Cats can contract Salmonella by eating contaminated poultry or raw food and then transmit it to people. In humans, it can cause fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Prevention: Don't feed your cat raw meat. Wash their dishes with hot, soapy water. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling their food or feces.
- Take your cat to the vet at least once a year.
- Keep your pet's vaccination and deworming schedule up to date.
- Avoid direct contact with unknown or stray cats.
- Supervise young children when playing with cats.
With proper care, living with cats is not only safe but also beneficial for emotional and mental health. The key lies in prevention and maintaining good hygiene habits both with your pet and in its environment.
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