The Dangers of Keeping Cats at Home
Many people love to keep cats in their homes without realizing that behind this practice lies the risk of transmitting various infectious diseases to humans. There are indeed several diseases that can be transmitted from cats to humans, including the following:
Ringworm (Tinea corporis):
About 40% of cats are estimated to carry this disease, which can be transmitted to humans. Ringworm is one of the most common diseases that can spread from cats to humans. It appears on the human skin in the form of red, itchy rings that gradually expand.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye):
Characterized by redness of the eye with purulent discharge, conjunctivitis can be treated with eye drops and ointments for both cats and humans. Preventive measures include washing hands thoroughly after handling a cat with the disease, not allowing the cat to roam freely around the house or climb on human beds and sitting areas when infected.
Throat and Tonsil Inflammation:
Some cats carry the streptococcal bacteria that can cause these inflammations. Treatment involves antibiotics, and prevention includes not allowing the cat to touch human food or drink.
Gastrointestinal Infections:
Certain cats carry Salmonella and Campylobacter bacteria, which can cause diarrhea and vomiting in humans. Precautions include wearing gloves when cleaning the cat and washing hands thoroughly after interacting with it. Keep the cat away from food preparation areas.
Cat Bite Infections:
Over 75% of cats carry Pasteurella bacteria in their mouths, which can lead to fever in humans. Additionally, some cats also carry Staphylococcus bacteria and tetanus, both of which can be transmitted through cat bites. Swift medical attention is advised after a bite, especially if the cat is an outdoor one or if the bite is deep.
Cat Scratch Disease:
Primarily affecting kittens, this disease is caused by Bartonella bacteria transmitted through fleas. When an infected cat scratches a human, the infection can be transmitted. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes and sometimes fever.
Helicobacter pylori Bacteria:
These bacteria cause stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers in humans. It was found in the 1990s that these bacteria could potentially be transmitted from cats to humans, often through contaminated food. Prevention involves keeping cats away from food preparation areas and thoroughly washing hands before eating.
Toxoplasmosis:
This single-celled organism affects cats when they consume undercooked meat or prey animals carrying the infection. Cats infected with toxoplasmosis shed oocysts in their feces. If humans come into contact with contaminated feces, they can be infected. Symptoms are flu-like and mild in most cases, but the infection can be severe for pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Viruses:
One of the most lethal diseases is rabies, which can be fatal for both humans and animals. Rabies is transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals, and its effects on the nervous system can lead to seizures, personality changes, and death. Vaccination is available for both humans and cats.
Preventing the Dangers of Cats:
The key point is to maintain good hand hygiene. Regularly wash your hands with soap and water to minimize the risk of diseases from cats.
When cleaning cat litter or handling feces, wear gloves to avoid direct contact.
Keep cats away from food preparation and eating areas.
Seek medical attention promptly if bitten by a cat, especially if the bite is deep.
Regularly clean and groom your cat to minimize the risk of infections.
If you're pregnant or have a weakened immune system, take extra precautions when handling cats or their litter.
Remember that responsible cat ownership involves not only providing love and care but also being aware of potential health risks and taking appropriate measures to protect both yourself and your feline companions.