1. Exposure to bacteria or viruses:
* Shared spaces: Cats can get sick from bacteria or viruses present in the environment, like salmonella or rotavirus, that humans may have been shedding. This can happen if a human with these infections doesn't practice good hygiene (not washing hands after using the restroom, etc.) and then interacts with the cat.
* Contaminated food: Cats might get sick from eating food that has been contaminated by a sick human, especially if the food is left out.
2. Stress:
* Changes in routine: If a human is sick and needs to stay home, their routine changes may affect the cat, causing stress and leading to digestive issues like diarrhea.
3. Exposure to medications:
* Human medication: Cats can get sick if they ingest human medication that is left out, even if the medication is meant for a human illness.
Important note:
* Cats are susceptible to different types of illnesses than humans. So, while a human might have a mild stomach bug, the same virus or bacteria might cause a more severe illness in a cat.
What to do:
* Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and before interacting with your cat.
* Keep food and medications out of reach: Make sure human food and medications are stored safely away from your cat.
* Watch for symptoms: If your cat exhibits symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Always remember: It's best to consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your cat's health.