Can Cats Cause Illness in Humans?
November 24, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, while cats are wonderful companions, they can carry certain pathogens or parasites that have the potential to cause illness in humans. However, the risk of contracting an illness from a cat is relatively low, especially with proper hygiene and regular veterinary care for the cat.
Here are a few potential health issues associated with cats:
- Allergies: Cat dander (tiny flecks of skin shed by cats), saliva, or urine can trigger allergic reactions in some people, causing symptoms like sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, or skin rashes.
- Zoonotic infections: Some infections can be transmitted from cats to humans. For example:
- Toxoplasmosis: Caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which can be present in cat feces. Pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems need to be cautious because toxoplasmosis can pose risks to unborn babies and those with compromised immunity.
- Cat scratch disease: A bacterial infection caused by Bartonella henselae, usually transmitted through scratches or bites from infected cats. It can lead to fever, swollen lymph nodes, and other mild symptoms in humans.
- Ringworm: Cats can carry and transmit ringworm, a fungal infection that causes red, itchy, or scaly patches on the skin. It can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected cat or its belongings.
- Bacterial infections: Though rare, certain bacteria carried by cats, like Salmonella or E. coli, can cause gastrointestinal illness in humans if they come into contact with contaminated feces or environments.
To minimize the risk of illness from cats, it’s important to:
- Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing after handling cats, cleaning litter boxes, or touching any potentially contaminated surfaces.
- Keep your cat’s litter box clean and wash your hands thoroughly after handling it.
- Regularly take your cat to the veterinarian for check-ups and vaccinations.
- Ensure your cat is treated for fleas, ticks, and other parasites to reduce the risk of transmission.
For individuals with compromised immune systems, pregnant women, or those with severe allergies, consulting a healthcare professional or an allergist before owning a cat is advisable to discuss potential risks and preventive measures.