"Life is not the same without a cat" — and the same can be said about a dog or even a hamster. But it is important to remember: beloved pets can sometimes be carriers of dangerous infections (and it is not just rabies).
The love for animals is traditionally associated with kindness. Parents are convinced that children growing up with cats and dogs become caring, sensitive, and responsible. Indeed, communication with our smaller brothers elevates us.
Responsibility and Risks: Is It Worth Getting a Pet?
A pet is a source of joy, but at the same time, it is a serious responsibility. Before getting a pet, it is worth weighing all the pros and cons. After all, we are responsible not only for their lives but also for the safety of our family.
Danger can come not only from stray animals that children bring home. Sometimes the threat comes from the "old-timers" that have lived in the house for years.
- Aggressive dog breeds can attack their owners.
- A kitten may cause severe allergies in a family member.
- The most serious threat is zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
Infections Transmitted from Animals to Humans
Rabies: A Deadly Danger
Not only a snake bite threatens life. The Rabies virus, which causes rabies, is found in the saliva of infected animals and enters the bloodstream through a bite. The disease is almost always fatal if treatment is not started in time.
Sources of infection can be dogs and cats (both stray and unvaccinated pets), rats, mice, as well as wild animals: foxes, wolves, hedgehogs. The latter often also carry leptospirosis, which affects the kidneys, liver, and nervous system.
Signs of a Rabid Animal
The common image of a rabid animal is a foaming mouth, wild eyes, and bared teeth. However, the manifestations of the disease can vary.
- Wild animals become unusually trusting.
- Cats, instead of aggression, hide in secluded places or become overly affectionate.
- Dogs often show aggression, but sometimes there are no external signs at all.
In dogs, the incubation period lasts about a week, while in cats it can be up to three weeks or more. During this time, the animal is contagious, even if it appears healthy. Therefore, it is important not to contact wild and unfamiliar animals and to vaccinate your pets on time.
If a bite has already occurred, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor. Only timely therapy is effective — a complete course of six injections. Preventive vaccination is only carried out for specialists who frequently work with animals.
Dangerous Diseases Carried by Cats
Allergy to Fur
Cats are favorites of millions. Their grace and beauty make them almost irreplaceable. But in some cases, it is better to refuse a kitten.
- Allergy to fur in family members is not treatable. Even the modern method of ASIT, successfully used for pollen allergies, does not work here.
Toxoplasmosis and Pregnancy
Women planning pregnancy should be aware of the infection toxoplasmosis. It is transmitted through contact with a cat — just petting the animal and not washing your hands is enough. For most people, toxoplasmosis is safe, but in the first trimester of pregnancy, it is dangerous for the fetus.
Expecting mothers are advised to get tested for IgG and IgM antibodies:
- IgM and IgG — fresh infection, high risk of complications;
- only IgG — long-standing and non-dangerous infection;
- absence of antibodies — the best option.
Cat Scratch Fever (Felinosis)
Another infection is felinosis, or cat scratch fever. The causative agent is chlamydia. Cats that roam outside are often the source. Infection occurs through scratches. Inflammation appears on the skin, and lymph nodes enlarge. The disease is treated with a course of antibiotics.
Other Threats from Pets
In addition to the diseases mentioned, animals can be carriers of:
- fungal infections (such as ringworm);
- ticks that transmit borreliosis and encephalitis;
- worms (toxocara, alveococcus, pinworms).
Rules for Protection Against Infections
To reduce the risk of infection, follow these recommendations:
- do not feed pets raw meat and fish;
- do not allow them to lick your face and do not kiss them;
- conduct deworming once a year;
- use tick collars and check fur after walks;
- avoid contact with street animals;
- wash your pet's paws after each walk;
- wash your hands thoroughly after interacting with the animal;
- vaccinate on time, especially against rabies;
- show any found animal to a veterinarian first.
Pets make life brighter and warmer, but they require care and attention. By following simple safety rules, you can maintain the health of both your beloved pets and your entire family.
