Zoonotic Diseases from Dogs and Cats: Key Risks & Prevention

Zoonotic diseases are infections that can pass from dogs and cats to humans. While some may cause mild symptoms, others can become serious or even life-threatening. Understanding these diseases, their symptoms, and how to prevent transmission is crucial for responsible pet ownership and protecting your family’s health.

1. Toxocariasis: Roundworm Risks from Soil

Toxocariasis is caused by the roundworms found in dogs and cats. Their eggs are shed in faeces and can contaminate soil. Children playing in gardens or parks are particularly vulnerable if they ingest contaminated soil or unwashed vegetables.

If untreated, larvae can migrate through organs causing visceral larva migrans, which may lead to breathing difficulties, coughing, and even neurological symptoms. Ocular larva migrans occurs when larvae invade the eye, potentially causing blindness. Fortunately, once diagnosed, this infection is treatable with appropriate medication.

2. Dermatophytosis (Ringworm): A Fungal Skin Infection

Despite the name, ringworm is a fungal infection usually spread from cats through direct skin contact or contact with contaminated objects like brushes or bedding. It causes circular, scaly, itchy lesions on both pets and humans.

In cats, lesions often start on the head and feet, spreading if untreated. Humans develop red, itchy rings at infected sites. Treatment involves antifungal medications for pets and humans, often requiring several weeks for full recovery.

3. Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies): Mite Infestation

Sarcoptic mange is caused by the sarcoptes scabiei mite, mainly affecting dogs but also cats. It causes intense itching and hair loss. The mites can transmit to humans through direct skin contact, causing irritation and itching, but typically fail to complete their life cycle on humans and die off.

4. Leptospirosis: Bacterial Infection from Contaminated Water

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease primarily carried by dogs, spreading through urine contaminated water or soil. Dogs may contract it from environments where rodents are present. Humans can be infected through contact with infected urine.

Symptoms in dogs include vomiting, fever, lethargy, and in severe cases, kidney failure which can be fatal. In people, early symptoms mimic flu but can escalate to serious illness involving liver and kidney damage, known as Weil's disease. While dogs have vaccines, no human vaccine is available, so prompt veterinary care and medical treatment are critical.

5. Toxoplasmosis: Importance for Pregnant Women

This parasitic disease is carried by cats and transmitted via contaminated soil or litter trays. Cats often show vague symptoms like loss of appetite or diarrhoea.

In humans, most recover without severe illness; however, infection during pregnancy risks miscarriage or serious birth defects. Pregnant women should practise careful hygiene when handling cat litter and avoid gardening without gloves.

6. Rabies: Rare but Fatal Viral Disease

Rabies is an acute viral infection affecting the nervous system, mostly spread by bites from infected animals. In the UK, strict pet travel and quarantine laws largely prevent this disease. However, in some countries it remains a fatal risk.

Early signs include fever and headache, progressing to aggression, paralysis, and death if untreated. If bitten, immediate medical treatment and vaccination are essential.

7. Other Zoonotic Risks from Pets

Dogs and cats can also transmit other bacterial infections such as leptospirosis and Pasteurellosis, parasitic diseases like giardiasis, and fungal infections. Additionally, reptiles and tropical fish are common carriers of Salmonella, a risk to human health.

Preventing Zoonotic Diseases: Responsible Care and Hygiene

Preventing transmission of zoonotic diseases relies on several key practices:

• Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations for your pets.
• Routine parasite control including worming and flea treatments.
• Proper hygiene: wash hands after handling pets, faeces, or soil.
• Careful cleaning of litter trays with gloves and frequent disinfecting.
• Avoiding contact between children and potentially contaminated soil or pet waste.
• Seeking prompt veterinary advice if your pet shows signs of illness.
• Being aware of travel and quarantine regulations for pets to minimise rabies risk.

Conclusion

While the risk of serious zoonotic diseases from dogs and cats in the UK is generally low thanks to strong hygiene and veterinary care practices, awareness and prevention are vital. Responsible pet ownership, including vaccinations, parasite control, and good hygiene, protects both your beloved pets and your family’s wellbeing. If you suspect any illness in your pet or experience unusual symptoms after contact, consult your vet or doctor promptly. Through knowledge and care, we can enjoy the companionship of dogs and cats safely and healthily.