Can Cats Catch Diseases From Their Owners? Facts and Prevention
Many people understand that cats can transmit certain diseases to humans, such as ringworm, some types of worms, and toxoplasmosis. Pregnant women are advised to avoid cleaning litter trays to reduce the risk of toxoplasmosis, and good hygiene habits around cats are always recommended, especially keeping them away from food preparation areas.
Less well known is that the reverse can also happen — humans can pass some diseases to their feline companions. This phenomenon is called reverse zoonosis, and while it is relatively uncommon, awareness is important for cat owners who want to keep their pets healthy. Let’s explore the diseases potentially transmissible from humans to cats, the risks involved, and how to reduce them effectively.
What Are Zoonotic and Reverse Zoonotic Diseases?
Zoonotic diseases are illnesses that can be transmitted between animals and humans. While many diseases cannot cross species barriers, some can. Reverse zoonoses refer specifically to cases where humans transmit infectious agents to animals, including cats. These cases are much rarer than transmission from animals to humans but do occur.
Common Diseases Cats Can Catch From Humans
1. Viral Respiratory Infections
Cats can catch certain respiratory viruses from humans, including some strains of influenza viruses like H1N1 and possibly coronaviruses. For example, in 2009, a case was documented where a cat contracted the H1N1 flu virus from its owner, leading to severe illness.
Given these risks, if you have the flu or a cold caused by a flu virus strain known to transmit, it’s wise to maintain good hygiene, avoid close face licking or cuddling in the most infectious days, and wash your hands frequently before interacting with your cat.
2. Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
MRSA is an antibiotic-resistant bacterium frequently found among people in healthcare settings. Studies have shown that cats in households with humans who are carriers or have recently been hospitalised may contract MRSA, displaying skin infections or wounds that won’t heal. Prompt veterinary attention is essential if you suspect your cat is affected because treatment requires specific antibiotics.
3. Fungal Infections
Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be passed from humans to cats, resulting in round, scaly skin lesions. Good hygiene and timely treatment can prevent further spread between human and feline family members.
4. Parasites and External Mites
Conditions like mange and scabies, though rarer in humans, can be transmitted to cats. Likewise, fleas and ticks can be transferred through close contact and the shared home environment. Regular parasite control treatments for both you and your cat are important for prevention.
5. Gastrointestinal Infections
Gastrointestinal disturbances like food poisoning caused by bacteria such as Campylobacter and Salmonella can be passed from humans to cats, often via contaminated faeces. If you or your cat has diarrhoea or vomiting, avoid close contact, practise intensive hand washing, and keep the cat away from affected areas to reduce risks.
Are There Diseases That Are Not Transmissible Between Cats and Humans?
It’s reassuring to know that many common human illnesses, such as the typical common cold caused by many viruses, cannot be passed to cats. Similarly, cats cannot transmit certain feline-specific viruses, like feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), to humans. The risk is generally low, but RNA viruses with frequent mutations, such as some influenza strains or coronaviruses, present unusual challenges and require careful hygiene practices.
How to Protect Your Cat From Diseases You May Have
- Keep Vaccinations Current: Ensure your cat's vaccinations are up to date to protect against respiratory and other transmissible infections.
- Maintain Good Personal Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly before and after contact with your cat, especially when you are unwell.
- Limit Close Contact When Sick: Avoid kissing, face licking, and close cuddling if you have a contagious illness like the flu or cold.
- Manage Parasite Control: Regular treatments prevent fleas, ticks, and mites that can move between humans and cats.
- Keep Litter Hygiene: Pregnant women or those with weakened immune systems should be cautious with litter tray cleaning to prevent infections like toxoplasmosis.
When to See the Vet
If you notice unusual symptoms in your cat, such as prolonged coughing, skin rashes, wounds that don’t heal, diarrhoea, or behavioural changes when you are ill, it is advisable to consult your veterinary surgeon promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment make a significant difference in outcomes.
Expert Advice & Awareness
UK veterinary experts confirm that while reverse zoonotic transmission is uncommon, it is possible, particularly in households where close contact with sick humans is frequent. The best defence is good hygiene and responsible pet care. Keeping both you and your cat healthy is the foundation of a happy, safe relationship.
Conclusion
While the chance of cats catching diseases from their owners remains low, some viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites can cross between species. Being informed, practising good hygiene, and minimising close contact when you are unwell will help safeguard your feline friend. Remember, responsible pet ownership includes caring for your own health as well as your cat’s.
