Could I Get a Disease From My Cat?

Posted by Tony slack on June 9th, 2021

Yes, it is possible for a human to get a disease from their cat. However, it’s not very likely. Read on as your animal hospital Rochester, NY tells you about some of the possibilities.

Cat Scratch Fever

Cat scratch fever, caused by the Bartonella bacteria, can be given to humans when a cat scratches or bites them. Cats don’t suffer from the bacteria, but humans can experience fever, headaches, and swollen lymph nodes.

Leptospirosis

The bacteria that causes leptospirosis can be carried by cats, and it could be transmitted to humans through a cat’s urine.

Ringworm

Ringworm isn’t a worm at all, but a fungal infection. It could be spread from cats to humans via direct contact, or when a human touches something a cat has touched.

These are just a few examples of diseases that could be contracted by a human from a cat. However, the likelihood of this happening is very low. As long as you follow basic hygiene procedures like washing your hands and avoiding direct contact with your cat’s urine or feces, you should be fine.

It’s also important to keep your cat updated with vaccinations and pest preventatives. Call your veterinarian Rochester, NY for help.