How do cats infect humans? - briefly
Cats can transmit infections to humans primarily through bites or scratches that break the skin, as well as through contact with their feces or contaminated surfaces. The most common infection is cat-scratch disease, caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae.
How do cats infect humans? - in detail
Cats can infect humans through various means, primarily through their feces and indirectly through contact with contaminated environments or objects. One of the most common ways cats transmit infections to humans is through a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii, which causes toxoplasmosis.
Toxoplasmosis is typically contracted when a person comes into contact with cat feces that contain the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. This can happen through direct contact with infected cat litter or by touching surfaces contaminated with the parasite, such as soil or garden tools. The parasite can also be ingested through consuming undercooked meat from animals that were themselves infected with Toxoplasma gondii.
Another common way cats can infect humans is through scratches and bites. Cats' mouths and paws can harbor bacteria such as Pasteurella multocida, which can cause a skin infection known as cat-scratch disease. This infection usually occurs when a person is scratched by a cat, and the bacteria enter the body through the broken skin.
Cats can also transmit other diseases to humans, although these are less common. For example, cats can carry the Bartonella henselae bacterium, which causes cat-scratch fever. This infection typically results from a cat scratch or bite and can lead to swollen lymph nodes and fatigue.
Preventing infections from cats requires good hygiene practices. Washing hands thoroughly after handling cats or cleaning their litter boxes is essential. Additionally, keeping cats indoors can reduce the risk of them bringing in infected prey or soil. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper flea control are also important to maintain the health of both cats and their human companions.