Can you get the plague from a cat? - briefly
Yes, it is possible to contract the plague from a cat, particularly through bites, scratches, or exposure to infected respiratory droplets.
Can you get the plague from a cat? - in detail
Yes, it is possible to contract the plague from a cat, although such cases are rare. The plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected fleas, which commonly infest rodents. Cats, particularly those that roam outdoors, can become infected by hunting or consuming rodents carrying the disease. Once infected, cats can transmit the plague to humans through several routes. Direct transmission can occur if a person is bitten or scratched by an infected cat, as the bacteria can be present in the cat's saliva or bodily fluids. Additionally, respiratory droplets from an infected cat with pneumonic plague can spread the disease to humans through close contact. Cats with bubonic plague may also carry infected fleas, which can then bite humans, leading to transmission. Symptoms of the plague in humans include sudden fever, chills, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes, and it requires immediate medical attention. While the risk is low, individuals in plague-endemic areas should exercise caution, especially with outdoor cats, and seek veterinary care if a cat shows signs of illness. Preventive measures include controlling flea populations, avoiding contact with sick or dead animals, and practicing good hygiene. The plague is treatable with antibiotics if diagnosed early, underscoring the importance of prompt medical intervention.