Community cats and public health
Many wild and domesticated animals can transmit diseases to humans. These are known as zoonotic diseases. While we should be concerned about these diseases, there are some common myths about the public health risks associated with cats in the community. In most cases, compassionate fellowship between cats and humans can be established, and knowing how to prevent zoonotic diseases is the best medicine.
Rabies
Rabies Rabies is an extremely rare disease in humans and cats. According to the Center for Disease Control, only 4 cases of human rabies were reported in 2011 and 49 cases since 1995.1 None of the cases have been attributed to cat bites.1 Given that only 303 rabies cats were identified in 2010 In the United States2, where the cat population is estimated to be 25 to 90 million, the likelihood of any particular cat having rabies is extremely low (0.3 to 1.2 per 100,000 cats), as is the likelihood of contact with a rabid cat. Still, rabies is a serious problem with cat bites. Therefore, bites must be treated promptly and appropriately. For more information, see our Community Cats and Rabies fact sheet.
Cat scratch
Cat scratch disease (CSD) is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. Most people get GSD from cat bites and scratches.3 Cats with B. henselae show no signs of illness; Therefore, it is difficult to know if a cat is infected. Kittens are more likely to be infected with B. henselae, although cats, fleas, and, to a lesser extent, ticks can transmit B. henselae to humans. People, such as those undergoing immunosuppressive treatment for cancer, organ transplant patients, and people living with HIV / AIDS, are more likely than other complications from GSD. You can minimize the chance of CSD in cats by taking the following precautions.
Rough play
Avoid rough play and other activities that can cause scratches and bites, especially on kittens. Wash cat bites and scratches immediately and thoroughly with soap and running water. Prevent cats from licking any open wounds you may have. Control of fleas and ticks. Contact your doctor if you develop symptoms such as infection (pus and swelling) at the scratched or bite site, fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and/or tiredness after a scratch or bite. of cat.
Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is caused by a parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. Although infection with the parasite is relatively common in humans, the actual disease is rare. Approximately half of the adult human population has been exposed to T. gondii, developed protective antibodies, and is likely immune to Toxoplasma infections. However, the infection can cause serious health problems in babies of pregnant women who have never been exposed and developed immunity, as well as in people who are immunocompromised. However, it is not necessary to get rid of your cat to avoid this parasite, as cats are unlikely to transmit toxoplasmosis directly to humans.
It is important to understand that once a cat has been infected with toxoplasmosis, immunity will be acquired and potentially infectious feces can rarely re-infect or pass through. Other animals, including humans, develop toxoplasmosis by accidentally ingesting cat feces or eating animals already infected with toxoplasmosis. You are more likely to be infected with T. gondii if you eat raw or undercooked meat, or garden in contaminated soil than if you came from your cat.