What parasites can you catch from cats? - briefly
Cats can transmit parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii, roundworms, and fleas, which may pose health risks to humans.
What parasites can you catch from cats? - in detail
Cats can transmit various parasites to humans, some of which pose significant health risks. One of the most common parasites is Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis. This protozoan parasite is often found in cat feces, and humans can contract it through contact with contaminated litter boxes or soil. While many individuals experience mild or no symptoms, toxoplasmosis can be severe for pregnant women or those with weakened immune systems, potentially leading to complications such as neurological damage or congenital infections in unborn babies.
Another notable parasite is Toxocara cati, a roundworm that infects cats. Humans can accidentally ingest its eggs from contaminated surfaces or soil, leading to toxocariasis. This condition can cause visceral larva migrans, where the larvae migrate through organs, or ocular larva migrans, affecting the eyes and potentially leading to vision impairment.
Cats can also carry Ancylostoma braziliense, a type of hookworm. Humans can contract cutaneous larva migrans when the larvae penetrate the skin, often through bare feet on contaminated soil. This results in itchy, red, and winding skin lesions, though the larvae typically do not mature in humans.
Additionally, cats can harbor Dipylidium caninum, a tapeworm transmitted through fleas. Humans, particularly children, can accidentally ingest infected fleas, leading to tapeworm infection. While often asymptomatic, it can cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
Lastly, Cheyletiella mites, known as "walking dandruff," can infest cats and occasionally transfer to humans, causing itchy skin rashes. Although these mites do not complete their life cycle on humans, they can cause temporary discomfort.
Preventive measures include maintaining proper hygiene, regular deworming of cats, and avoiding direct contact with contaminated materials. Understanding these risks and taking appropriate precautions can significantly reduce the likelihood of parasitic infections from cats.