Bacterial infections:
* Cat scratch disease: This is the most common infection transmitted from cats to humans. It's caused by a bacteria called Bartonella henselae and is usually spread through a scratch or bite. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, fever, and fatigue.
* Ringworm: This fungal infection is highly contagious and can be transmitted through contact with an infected cat's skin, hair, or environment. It causes circular, scaly patches on the skin.
* Salmonella: While less common, cats can carry salmonella bacteria, which can be transmitted through their saliva, feces, or fur. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.
Viral infections:
* Toxoplasmosis: This parasitic infection is spread through contact with infected cat feces or undercooked meat. While usually mild in healthy adults, it can be dangerous for pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
* Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV): This virus is similar to HIV in humans but doesn't typically infect humans. However, there are rare cases of transmission to humans with weakened immune systems.
* Feline leukemia virus (FeLV): This virus is not known to infect humans.
Other infections:
* Roundworms: Cats can carry roundworms that can be transmitted to humans through their feces. These worms can cause digestive problems and other health issues.
* Hookworms: Similar to roundworms, hookworms can be transmitted through contact with infected cat feces. They can cause skin irritation and digestive problems.
Risk factors:
* Age: Children and older adults are more susceptible to infections from cats.
* Immune system: People with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of infection.
* Contact with cats: Frequent contact with cats increases the risk of infection.
Prevention:
* Wash your hands thoroughly: After handling cats, litter boxes, or cat toys, always wash your hands with soap and water.
* Keep your cat healthy: Regular veterinary checkups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention can help keep your cat healthy and reduce the risk of infection.
* Clean litter boxes regularly: Dispose of cat feces properly and clean litter boxes frequently to prevent the spread of infection.
* Avoid contact with wild cats: Wild cats are more likely to carry infections, so it's best to avoid contact with them.
Seek medical attention: If you experience symptoms that could be related to an infection from a cat, it's important to see a doctor.
Remember, most cats don't carry infections that are dangerous to humans. By taking simple precautions, you can keep both yourself and your feline friend healthy.