What Are the Dangers of Handling Cats Without Washing Hands?

Owning a cat is both rewarding and fulfilling, particularly for children who enjoy cuddling up to and stroking their animal. Nevertheless, caution must be exercised when handling cats to prevent the transfer of any illness or parasite. A common-sense approach of washing hands thoroughly and using anti-bacterial wash after handling your cat usually prevents contamination.

  1. Zoonotic Diseases

    • Most infectious diseases are species specific, although there are instances when cats contaminate humans with infectious diseases through secretion of saliva. These diseases are referred to as zoonotic, that is, they can be passed to humans. The very old, the very young and people with low immunity are most at risk.

    Ringworm

    • Ringworm is actually a fungal disease, similar to athlete's foot. Stroking a contaminated cat is one way that ringworm is transmitted to humans, so it is best to avoid contact with the cat and restrict it to one room while it recovers, to prevent the growth of fungal spores in all rooms of the house.

    Flea Treatment

    • Cats with fleas require treatment in the form of spray, liquid or powder. Many treatments for cat fleas contain pesticides and carcinogenic ingredients, which are also harmful to humans. Touching a treated cat with your hands poses a risk to humans, so avoid contact until the liquid has fully penetrated the animal's skin.

    Bacterial Diseases

    • Occasionally, some less common diseases and illnesses can be transmitted from cats to people. Bacteria, which causes cold, flu and conjunctivitis in cats can be passed to humans. When transmitted to humans, continuous streptococcal infections in cats present themselves as tonsillitis and pharyngitis.