Can you get mycoplasmosis from a cat? - briefly
Mycoplasmosis is rarely transmitted from cats to humans, as the species of Mycoplasma affecting cats typically do not infect humans.
Can you get mycoplasmosis from a cat? - in detail
Mycoplasmosis is a disease caused by bacteria from the Mycoplasma genus, which can affect both animals and humans. While cats can carry certain species of Mycoplasma, such as Mycoplasma felis, which primarily causes respiratory infections or conjunctivitis in felines, the risk of transmission to humans is extremely low. Mycoplasma species that infect cats are generally host-specific, meaning they are adapted to infect cats and are not typically capable of causing disease in humans. However, it is important to note that Mycoplasma infections in humans are usually caused by species like Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which is unrelated to those found in cats. Transmission of Mycoplasma from cats to humans would require direct exposure to infected bodily fluids, such as saliva or respiratory secretions, but such cases are rare and not well-documented. To minimize any potential risk, maintaining good hygiene practices, such as washing hands after handling pets or cleaning their litter boxes, is advisable. If a cat shows signs of respiratory illness or conjunctivitis, consulting a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment is essential. While the likelihood of contracting mycoplasmosis from a cat is minimal, understanding the disease and taking preventive measures can help ensure the health of both pets and their owners.