Can You Get Your Pet Sick?

Pets are a joy to have around, but they can also be a source of germs. While most pets are healthy, some can carry bacteria or viruses that can make people sick. These illnesses are called zoonoses, and they can range from mild to severe.

How Can You Get Sick from Your Pet?

There are a number of ways you can get sick from your pet. Some of the most common ways include:

• Bites and scratches: If your pet bites or scratches you, the bacteria on their teeth or claws can enter your skin and cause an infection.
• Contact with saliva: Pets often lick themselves and their surroundings, and their saliva can contain bacteria or viruses that can be passed on to humans if it comes into contact with their eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Contact with feces: Pet feces can contain bacteria or parasites that can be transmitted to humans through contact with the soil or water where the feces are deposited.
• Contact with urine: Pet urine can contain bacteria that can cause skin infections if it comes into contact with human skin.
• Inhalation of dander: Pet dander (tiny flakes of skin) can contain allergens that can trigger asthma and allergies in some people.

What Are the Symptoms of Zoonoses?

The symptoms of zoonoses can vary depending on the type of illness. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Respiratory problems

How Can You Prevent Getting Sick from Your Pet?

There are a number of things you can do to prevent getting sick from your pet, including:

• Wash your hands frequently: Wash your hands with soap and water after handling your pet, their food or water bowls, or their litter box.
• Keep your pet clean: Bathe your pet regularly and brush their fur to help remove dirt and bacteria.
• Keep your pet's vaccinations up-to-date: Vaccinations can help protect your pet from diseases that can be spread to humans.
• Avoid contact with your pet's feces or urine: If you do come into contact with your pet's feces or urine, wash your hands immediately with soap and water.
• Keep your pet indoors: Keeping your pet indoors can help to reduce their exposure to diseases that can be spread by other animals.
• If you're sick, stay away from your pet: If you're sick, stay away from your pet to avoid passing your illness on to them.

When to See a Doctor

If you think you may have gotten sick from your pet, see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve the outcome of the illness.