How can a cat get infected with human worms? - briefly
Cats can contract human worms by ingesting contaminated food, water, or soil, or through direct contact with infected human feces.
How can a cat get infected with human worms? - in detail
Cats can become infected with human worms through various indirect and direct pathways, often involving the transmission of parasitic eggs or larvae from humans to cats. One common route is through accidental ingestion of contaminated material. For example, if a human has a worm infection such as roundworms, pinworms, or tapeworms, their eggs or larvae can be shed in feces. If a cat comes into contact with contaminated surfaces, litter boxes, or soil where these eggs are present, they may ingest them while grooming or exploring. Additionally, certain parasites like tapeworms can be transmitted to cats if they consume fleas that have ingested tapeworm eggs from human environments. Another potential source of infection is undercooked or raw meat that has been contaminated with worm larvae, which can occur if humans handle such meat improperly and then expose the cat to it. Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hands after using the bathroom or handling contaminated objects, can also contribute to the spread of worm eggs to cats. Furthermore, in rare cases, direct contact with an infected human’s skin or bodily fluids can lead to transmission, particularly with parasites like hookworms, which can penetrate the skin. Maintaining strict hygiene, proper disposal of human waste, and regular deworming of pets are essential to minimize the risk of cross-species worm infections.