Zoonoses: humans catching diseases from cats and dogs

Did you know that you could pick up a disease from your pet? Zoonoses are infectious diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. However, given the millions of companion animals in the country, this happens relatively infrequently. Humans, in fact, are much more likely to catch something from another human. By simply maintaining good hygiene, much of the risk of contracting an illness from an animal is eliminated.

Possible zoonoses infections

Rabies

Rabies, the most dreaded of these diseases, is the easiest to prevent. Spread through the bite of a rabid animal or from infected saliva that enters an open wound or mucous membrane, this virus attacks the central nervous system. If not treated in time, rabies results in death. Dogs and cats allowed to roam outdoors are at the greatest risk, should they come into contact or get into a fight with an infected wild animal. The best line of defense is prevention. Keep your dog on a leash when he's outside, keep your cats indoors, and keep your pet's rabies shots up to date. If you suspect that your pet has been bitten by a rabid animal, put on gloves to prevent infection to yourself and rinse the bite area with soap and lukewarm water. Consult your vet immediately.

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis also raises much concern – and it, too, is largely preventable. The parasite can be transmitted when a person comes into contact with an infected cat's feces, but it is also found in soil. Although most people have built up immunity to toxoplasmosis, it can cause birth defects if contracted by a woman in the early stages of pregnancy. To avoid exposure, pregnant females should have someone else clean the cat's litterbox.

Worms

Some worms can be passed from animals to humans. About 10,000 children annually are infected with roundworms. Always wash your hands before and after handling your pet, and never handle feces. Avoid bringing your child to public areas where animals defecate, and have your pet's feces periodically checked by a veterinarian for infestation.

Intestinal parasites

Giardia, an intestinal parasite, and salmonellosis, can also be passed from animal to human. Symptoms of salmonellosis in humans include vomiting and diarrhea. Most cases in this country are the result of eating contaminated food, but birds and reptiles are prone to carrying the salmonella bacteria. Ringworm and sarcoptic mange can also be transmitted by animals.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium that can be picked up from the urine of an infected dog. It is more likely, however, to be contracted via contaminated water. Make sure your dog is vaccinated against this disease.

Prevention

What can be done to prevent you and your family from getting a zoonotic disease? Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands with hot water and antibacterial soap after handling your pet and cleaning the litterbox. If your animal bites you and the area around the wound becomes swollen and painful, seek medical attention.