Learn about Campylobacteriosis in cats caused by bacteria spread through contaminated food, water, and contact with infected cats. Explore prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Campylobacteriosis (Campylobacter spp) | Cat Disease | VetandTech

Campylobacteriosis (Campylobacter spp.)

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Campylobacteriosis is a disease that can be spread in both animals and people due to Campylobacter bacteria. It&#39;s one of the most common diseases, spread through the germs of the cats. It has been estimated that approximately 1.5 million people get sick annually due to Campylobacter in the United States. Therefore, pet owners need to understand the causes and treatments of the potential complications to protect themselves from these diseases.&nbsp;

<h3>How it spreads :</h3>

The most common causes of Campylobacter are consuming insufficiently or raw cooked poultry, seafood, the meat of the affected animal, and drinking unfiltered water. Moreover, people can also get infected by coming into contact with the poop of the affected cats. According to experts, people who don&#39;t wash their hands appropriately after touching the poop, beds, and open wounds of the infected animals are more prone to catching this disease. It&#39;s pertinent to mention that cats commonly become infected by consuming contaminated meat and shed the bacteria in their poop.&nbsp;

Who is at higher risk : &nbsp;Minors younger than five years of age, old-age people, i.e., over 65 years of age, and people having weak immune systems are at high risk of Campylobacteriosis.

<h3>Signs in cats :</h3>

&nbsp;Usually, it has been observed that no particular signs appear in cats as they may seem healthy in most cases. However, sometimes, affected cats may have bloody diarrhea.&nbsp;

Symptoms in people : Diarrhea accompanied by nausea and vomiting, stomach issues, and fever are the most common symptoms in infected people. These symptoms may start appearing within 2-5 days after getting in contact with the infection and last about one week. Sometimes, the infection gets severe, and people may face arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and temporary paralysis. This disease could be life-threatening for people with a weak immune system who already suffer from a blood disorder, AIDS, or are under chemotherapy treatment.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Diagnosis : Infection caused by Campylobacter could be diagnosed through a laboratory test, which detects bacteria in the stool, body tissue, or fluids. The test could be a culture that isolates the bacteria or a quick diagnosis.&nbsp;

Wash Your Hands: Dirty hands could be the major reason behind the quick spread of this infection. To prevent the infection, you should wash your hands with soap and water during these times:&nbsp;&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Before, during, and after preparing the food.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Before eating anything.</li>
	<li>After coughing, sneezing, or blowing the nose.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>After using the toilet.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Immediately after cleaning up the child, changing diapers, etc.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>After taking care of or getting in contact with sick people&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Before and after dealing with any wound or cut.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>After petting, touching, or cleaning the poop of the animals.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>After touching garbage</li>
</ul>

<h3>Keep Foods Separated</h3>

<ul>
	<li>To keep raw poultry away from healthy foods, separating and cleaning the cutting board is crucial.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and fresh fruits and vegetables.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ensure the appropriate cleaning of the cutting boards and utensils with soap and hot water.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h3>Ensure Right Temperature For Cooking Food</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Poultry, including chicken, turkey, goose, and other farmed birds, is one of the major reasons behind the Campylobacter illnesses in the United States.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>According to healthcare experts, all poultry foods should be cooked at a minimum temperature of 165&deg;F</li>
	<li>Say no to the partially or undercooked foods in the restaurants.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h3>Drink Pasteurized Milk</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Raw milk can carry Campylobacter, and other harmful germs could be present in the raw milk that can cause illness. Moreover, pregnant women, minors and infants, adults over the age of 65, people having serious disorders and weak immune systems are highly likely to get infected after drinking raw milk.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Avoid Drinking Untreated Water

Contaminated water contains harmful germs that have become the major reason behind various diseases. Therefore;

<ul>
	<li>Don&#39;t drink unfiltered water from rivers, ponds, streams, or lakes.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Wells must be located at a distance from the sources of contamination, including septic tanks, livestock, and manure.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Antibiotic Resistance</h3>

People infected with Campylobacter don&#39;t need antibiotics. They just need to drink extra fluid. However, people with serious illnesses sometimes need antibiotic treatment such as; ciprofloxacin and azithromycin. However, some bacteria are resistant to these antibiotics commonly used to treat Campylobacter infection. Infections with antibiotic-resistant bacteria can be harder to treat, can last longer, and may result in more severe illness. If not treated timely, the infection could be a serious threat to other people&#39;s health.

The treatment mainly depends on the severity of the illness. Most of the time, people simply recover without consuming any antibiotics. Nevertheless, experts suggest drinking maximum water fluids until recovery from diarrhea lasts. In addition, people with higher risk, i.e., more than 65 years of age, pregnant women, or have a severe illness, might need antibiotic treatments. But some people are resistant to antibiotics. In such cases, health care providers perform bacterial culture tests to know which type of antibiotics will work. Furthermore, it&#39;s also important for the infected people to follow the instructions of the medical practitioners to take the antibiotics and medicine exactly prescribed by the health care providers.

Learn about cat tapeworm a parasite that can be transmitted to cats, dogs, and humans. Explore how it spread, what are the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Cat Tapeworm (Dipylidium Caninum) | Cat Disease | VetandTech

Cat Tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum)

<img alt="Cat Tapeworm (Dipylidium Caninum)" src="https://web.dvmcentral.com/file-manager/preview?disk=file-manager&amp;path=Cat%20Tapeworm%20(Dipylidium%20Caninum).jpg&amp;v=1682598530" style="height:283px; width:875px" />The cat tapeworm is a parasite spread among cats, dogs, and people through the ingestion of infected fleas. It&#39;s more common in cats and less in other pets or people.&nbsp;

How it is spread : When a person and particular cats swallow an infected flea, it usually gets infected with the tapeworm. Nevertheless, providing appropriate treatment to pets for fleas can prevent and even reduce the risk of this infection. &nbsp; 
Who is at risk: People are at very low risk of getting infected with tapeworm. However, infants or children are more prone to exposure to this disease.&nbsp;

Signs in animals : Tapeworms are sometimes not harmful to cats and don&#39;t cause any illness. One can detect the parasites crawling near the anus or in fresh feces (poop). In case of serious infection, dogs may start losing weight.&nbsp;

Symptoms in people&nbsp;: As we have already discussed, this infection is not very common in people, and there are no symptoms. &nbsp;

Flea control is the most effective way to prevent infections in both pets and humans. Fleas must be controlled on your pet and in indoor and outdoor environments. If your cats have tapeworms, contact your veterinarian right away. Clean up after your pet, especially in public parks and playgrounds. Bury the feces or place them in a plastic bag and throw them away.

Dipylidium treatment for both animals and humans is straightforward and highly effective. Praziquantel, a prescription drug, is administered orally or by injection (pets only). The medication dissolves the tapeworm within the intestine.

Learn about Cat Scratch Disease (CSD) caused by bacteria spread through flea bites, fighting or contact with infected cats. Explore its symptoms, prevention and treatment.

Cat Scratch Disease (Bartonella henselae) | VetandTech

Cat Scratch Disease (Bartonella henselae)

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Bacteria Bartonella henselae and other species are the major reason for Cat scratch disease (CSD).&nbsp;

How it spreads : Flea bites, fighting or getting in contact with the infected cats, or blood transfusions can develop infections in cats. Humans can also be exposed to this infection through the licking or scratching of the affected animal.&nbsp;

Who is at risk : Cats younger than one year of age, those living in the shelters, current or previous flea infestation, stray cats, or those that hunt are at a high risk of being exposed to these diseases. This disease can affect anyone, but infants, children less than 15 years of age, particularly people with weak immune systems, are more prone to the CSD.&nbsp;

Symptoms in pets : It has been estimated that about one-third to half of cats get infected at some point in their life. There are no serious symptoms of this disease because most cats may seem healthy or suffer through mild symptoms, including fever, that lasts for just two to three days. However, in rare cases, the symptoms may include tiredness, red eyes, vomiting, swollen lymph nodes, or lack of appetite. 
&nbsp; 
Signs in people : A small, raised, solid bump at the scratch site or lymph node swelling may appear in the people exposed to CSD. These symptoms may appear 1-3 weeks after the scratching or licking of the infected cat. The infection can also cause an eye infection, muscle pain, fever, other symptoms, etc.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

You can avoid infection by taking the following precautions:

<ul>
	<li>Cat bites and scratches should be washed immediately with soap and running water.</li>
	<li>Cats under a year old are more likely to have CSD and spread it to humans, so people with weakened immune systems should adopt cats older than a year.</li>
	<li>Trim your cat&#39;s nails regularly.</li>
	<li>Control the flea infestation in your cat. Once a month, use a flea product (topical or oral medication) approved by your veterinarian.</li>
	<li>Keep cats indoors to reduce their exposure to fleas.</li>
	<li>Keep them away from stray or potentially infected animals.</li>
	<li>Schedule routine veterinary health examinations. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Consult your doctor about CSD testing and treatments. Only when the disease is severe, and the doctor suspects CSD based on the patient&#39;s symptoms are people tested for CSD. CSD is rarely treated in otherwise healthy people.

Consult your veterinarian about cat testing and treatments. Your veterinarian can tell you whether your cat needs testing or treatment. 
&nbsp;

Learn about cryptosporidium (Crypto), a parasitic disease in cats caused by contaminated feces or food. Explore its symptoms, prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Cryptosporidiosis (Cryptosporidium spp) | Cat Disease | VetandTech

Cryptosporidiosis (Cryptosporidium spp.)

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&nbsp;

The germ Cryptosporidium, in short Crypto, causes this parasitic disease. This infection is commonly spread accidentally, swallowing stools of infected animals or people.&nbsp;

How it spreads : Crypto spreads through swallowing poop that contains germs or through contaminated food. For instance, if somebody drinks untreated water from ponds or canals, recreational water, or doesn&#39;t wash their hands after handling an infected animal, they can get Crypto. 
&nbsp; 
Who is at risk : Crypto can affect anyone, particularly those people with weak immune systems or already suffering from severe diseases.&nbsp;

Signs in cats : Cats are at lower risk of getting infected with Crypto. Moreover, in the case of getting an infection, cats may not show any particular symptoms of illness.&nbsp;

Symptoms in people : Infected people may show watery diarrhea with cramping, profuse vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain. The symptoms usually disappear typically within 1&ndash;2 weeks.

Diagnosis &amp; Detection : Cryptosporidiosis is diagnosed after examining the stool samples. However, the detection of Crypto isn&#39;t as easy as it may seem. People may have to submit stool samples over several days. Additionally, the stool is examined using different techniques such as; acid-fast staining, enzyme immunoassays, or direct fluorescent antibody [DFA]. 
&nbsp;

The most effective preventative measure for this disease is to keep your cat clean and avoid feeding it animal feces or drinking dirty water, which could be contaminated with Cryptosporidium.

You can reduce the likelihood of Crypto spreading by taking the following precautions:

<ul>
	<li>Linens, clothing, dishwasher- or dryer-safe soft toys, and other items soiled with poop or vomit should be washed as soon as possible.</li>
	<li>Keep other household objects and surfaces clean and washed (for example, diaper-changing areas).</li>
	<li>Practice good hygiene to prevent Cryptosporidium from spreading. Hands should be washed with soap and water regularly, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and eating or preparing food. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Cryptosporidiosis treatment includes managing the condition by limiting food until diarrhea subsides and increasing fluids to combat dehydration. Healthy cats&#39; immune systems will fight the parasite, and the condition will usually resolve without treatment. However, young, old, and immune-compromised animals may require medication and close supervision.

Learn about Giardia a parasitic disease caused by ingesting contaminated food or water with infected animal or human stool. Explore its symptoms, prevention and treatment.

Giardiasis (Giardia duodenalis) | Cat Disease | VetandTech

Giardiasis (Giardia duodenalis)

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&nbsp;

Giardia is a parasite found in soil, food, and water contaminated by the stool or poop of the infected animal or people.&nbsp;

How it spreads : This disease is usually caused or spread due to swallowing microscopic poop by coming in contact with an infected person or animal, drinking untreated water or food, contaminated with poop from infected people or pets.&nbsp;

Who is at risk : Cats are at lower risk of getting infected with Giardia. It&#39;s pertinent to mention that the type of parasite that causes illness in people is not the same that infects cats. The following group of people is more prone to exposure to Giardiasis:

<ul>
	<li>People who travel internationally.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>People have contact with children&#39;s diapers.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Having contact with poop during sexual contact with someone is affected by this parasite.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Drink untreated or unfiltered water from a pond, lake, river, stream, or spring.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>People who swim in natural bodies of water.</li>
</ul>

Signs in cats: Diarrhea, greasy stools, or dehydration are the most common symptoms in cats infected with Giardia.

Symptoms in people: Infected people may suffer from abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, gas, vomiting, or nausea. Sometimes people with Giardia infection may not show any particular symptoms of illness.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Diagnosis: Healthcare providers must consult with a diagnostic laboratory for the appropriate testing to identify the Giardia parasites. However, if the testing is beyond the capacity of the diagnostic laboratory, the laboratory should contact public health officials to get a complete understanding of the specimen collection, submission, etc. Microscopy with direct fluorescent antibody testing (DFA) is the top choice for diagnosing the presence of Giardiasis. Other alternate techniques include:

<ul>
	<li>Rapid immunochromatographic cartridge assays</li>
	<li>Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kits</li>
	<li>Microscopy with trichrome staining</li>
	<li>Molecular assays</li>
</ul>

You can reduce your chances of contracting Giardiasis by taking the following precautions:

<ul>
	<li>Wear gloves to reduce the risk of contracting infected poop or soil when gardening.</li>
	<li>Cleaning and disinfecting household surfaces where your pet spends time is especially important, such as toys, bedding, water, and food bowls.</li>
	<li>Wash your hands with soap and water after touching your pets, their food or treats, their poop, or their supplies.</li>
	<li>Change cat litter boxes daily.</li>
	<li>Limit your pet&#39;s access to common outdoor spaces, such as dog parks or public trails, if they have diarrhea or are being treated for Giardia.</li>
	<li>Clean cat environments (such as holding areas, floors, and crates) daily, and wash their water bowls with soap and water. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Treatment is often provided to the patients based on medical history and clinical symptoms of this disease. However, the general rule of thumb is that medical practitioners should discuss the treatment options with patients.

Learn about hookworms, small parasites that can spread through contact with contaminated soil or sand. Explore its symptoms, prevention, diagnosis & treatment.

Hookworm in Cats | Cat Disease | VetandTech

Hookworm (Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Ancylostoma braziliense, Uncinaria stenocephala)

<img alt="Hookworm (Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Ancylostoma braziliense, Uncinaria stenocephala)" src="https://web.dvmcentral.com/file-manager/preview?disk=file-manager&amp;path=Cat%20Hookworm%20(Ancylostoma%20Tubaeforme%2C%20Ancylostoma%20Braziliense%2C%20Uncinaria%20Stenocephala).jpg&amp;v=1682598530" style="height:283px; width:875px" />Hookworms are small worms that can spread if someone comes in contact with polluted sand or soil.&nbsp;

How it spreads : Walking barefoot, kneeling, or sitting on the contaminated (with the stool of affected animals) ground can cause hookworm infection among people. Meanwhile, cats can be exposed to this infection after swallowing the parasites or through their mother&#39;s milk or colostrum.

Who is at risk : Anyone can get infected with hookworms due to the aforementioned reasons. &nbsp;

Signs in cats : Symptoms including weight loss, anemia, and even life-threatening infections may appear in the kittens.&nbsp;

Symptoms in People : Itchy reaction and a red squiggly line, where the parasite is present, are the most common symptoms that may appear in people. It&#39;s worth noting that both human and animal hookworms cannot survive in infected people or animals. Therefore, symptoms might disappear within 4-6 weeks without receiving medical treatment.

To prevent skin contact with contaminated soil and sand. It&#39;s crucial to get the protective measures including:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Wearing shoes while walking on the ground will protect you from infection caused by zoonotic hookworms.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Use protective mats, wear shoes and use other covering while traveling to the subtropical and tropical climates and beaches, etc. Taking all these measures will protect you from getting in direct contact with the contaminated solid and sand.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>To reduce the environmental pollution due to the zoonotic hookworm eggs and larvae, it&#39;s crucial to ensure regular veterinary care, i.e., regular deworming of dogs and cats.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Prompt and appropriate disposal of animals&#39; poop prevents eggs from hatching, eventually reducing the risk of parasitic infection. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Learn about the causes, spread, and risks of the Yersinia pestis bacteria, which causes plague infection in cats. Explore its symptoms, prevention, diagnosis & treatment.

Plague (Yersinia pestis) | Cat Disease | VetandTech

Plague (Yersinia pestis)

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&nbsp;

A plague is caused by a bacteria known as Yersinia pestis, which can cause infection in both animals and people. This infection usually spreads mainly due to fleas in the Western United States. However, they can transfer the bacteria to rodents and other small animals. Therefore, pets, i.e., cats, dogs, and people, can catch this disease if the infected fleas bite them. Additionally, dogs and cats can get ill with the plague and transfer the infection to their owners and other people.&nbsp;

How it spreads: Getting in contact with or touching the plague-infected animals and flea bites can cause the infection in people and animals. In addition to this, inhaling the infectious droplets spread due to the coughs of the sick cats can also cause infection among people. &nbsp;

Who is at risk: Residents or those who travel to the Western United States, particularly the rural areas, are at higher risk of catching this infection. In addition, excessive contact with the pets, such as; sleeping with the pets, are more prone to getting infected than others.&nbsp;

Signs in cats: Cats are especially at risk for the plague. Cats with plague may have a fever, low appetite, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes on their neck that can sometimes look like a wound. In addition, cats can develop plague pneumonia and may cough or have difficulty breathing. Owners should minimize contact with sick pets and seek veterinary care as soon as possible to decrease the risk of getting sick.

Symptoms in people: People most of the time get infected with the Bubonic plague. Infected people may show the signs of high fever, headaches, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and weakness. Additionally, other types of plague such as; plague pneumonia and septicemic plague may result in severe symptoms.&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>The best step to prevent the plague infection is to reduce the rodent habitat around your residential places, workspaces, and recreational areas. Thus make your home and buildings rodent-proof by removing cluttered firewood, rock piles, and the food supplies of rodents.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Don&#39;t forget to wear gloves while handling the infected animals.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Use repellent to avoid contact with the rodent fleas.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Do not allow dogs or cats that walk freely in the infected areas to sleep or sit on your beds or living areas.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Plague is undoubted and could be life-threatening, but early treatment with the commonly used antibiotics is possible. Furthermore, the chances of recovery increase if the infected patient seeks early medical care and appropriate treatment. However, preventive antibiotic therapy depends on the type and severity of the plague.&nbsp;

Learn how to protect your pets from tick-borne diseases such as Lyme, tularemia, babesiosis, and ehrlichiosis. Explore its symptoms, prevention and treatment.

Tick-borne Diseases | Cat Disease | VetandTech

Tick-borne Diseases

<img alt="Tick-borne Diseases in Cats" src="https://web.dvmcentral.com/file-manager/preview?disk=file-manager&amp;path=Tick-borne%20Diseases%20in%20Cats.jpg&amp;v=1682598530" style="height:283px; width:875px" />Tick-borne infections such as; babesiosis, Lyme disease, tularemia, and ehrlichiosis are the most common in pets. However, responsible pet owners should never take it for granted and get their animals to the veterinary clinic to avoid ticks. Treating ticks can further reduce the risk of other Tick-borne diseases.&nbsp;

How it spreads : Biting of an infected tick can spread Tick-borne germs. It is also possible that a small amount of saliva is transferred from the tick into animals or people&#39;s skin. Usually, it happens during the feeding process.&nbsp;

Who is at risk : Spending time in tick habitats, including brushy, wooded, or grassy areas, can increase the risk of this disease in both people and animals. For example, ticks may be present in cats under collars, around the ears, near eyelids, between back legs or toes, under front legs, or around the tail. Pet owners should remove the ticks promptly to prevent the diseases.&nbsp;

Signs in pets : Signs in pets heavily depend on the type or severity of the infection. And sometimes, no signs of illness appear in the cats.

Symptoms in people : The most common signs include body aches, fever, chills, or a rash. However, the symptoms can be different depending on the type of disease. As some tick-borne diseases could be life-threatening, it is crucial to consult with your doctor if you develop any of the signs mentioned above.

The best prevention is to avoid tick contact inside and outside the home. Showering within two hours of entering the house reduces the risk of other tick-borne diseases. Ticks can enter the home on clothing and pets and then attach to a person, so thoroughly inspect pets, coats, and daypacks. Many tick control products for cats are available, including dips, sprays, topicals, tablets, and even collars. Work with your veterinarian to determine what is best for you and your cat.

&nbsp;In most cases, treating a tick-borne disease in cats requires two to four weeks of antibiotics such as doxycycline. Supportive care such as pain medications, blood transfusions, anti-inflammatories, IV fluids, and appetite stimulants may be required depending on the severity of the symptoms.

Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, relapsing fever, and most tick-borne diseases are treated with doxycycline or tetracycline. Treatment should not be postponed for laboratory confirmation in patients with clinical findings suggestive of tick-borne disease. 
&nbsp;

Learn about Toxoplasmosis, a disease caused by a parasite that can be found in meat, water, or cat poop. Explore its symptoms, prevention, diagnosis & treatment.

Toxoplasmosis (Toxoplasma gondii) | Cat Disease | VetandTech

Toxoplasmosis (Toxoplasma gondii)

<img alt="Toxoplasmosis (Toxoplasma gondii) in Cats" src="https://web.dvmcentral.com/file-manager/preview?disk=file-manager&amp;path=Toxoplasmosis%20(Toxoplasma%20Gondii)%20in%20Cats.jpg&amp;v=1682598530" style="height:283px; width:875px" />Parasite present in meat, food, water, soil, or poop of infected animals, i.e., cat, is the major cause behind Toxoplasmosis.&nbsp;

How it spreads : Consuming undercooked meat, shellfish, or direct contact with cat poop can result in the infection. Meanwhile, cats get infected after eating infected birds, rodents, or small animals. Finally, drinking contaminated water and polluted food could be the reason for developing an infection. But, it mostly happens when people don&#39;t wash their hands after petting, feeding the animals, or, more importantly, cleaning the litter box.&nbsp;

Who is at risk : People with weak immune systems are at higher risk of getting infected with this disease. Additionally, pregnant women may transfer the infection to their unborn child, resulting in congenital disabilities or complications.&nbsp;

Signs in cats : Cats infected with Toxoplasmosis usually don&#39;t show any signs or rarely appear sick. &nbsp;

Symptoms in people : Mild flu-like or eye diseases may rarely appear in the infected people. But most of the time, signs don&#39;t appear in people with Toxoplasmosis. Thus, there can be severe complications in people with weak immune systems.&nbsp;

Toxoplasmosis can be avoided by taking a few simple precautions. Change the cat litter boxes daily, and then thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. Toxoplasma is more likely to be released in the feces of younger cats, so avoid adopting stray kittens. Cook the meat thoroughly, and wash all kitchen supplies that have come into contact with raw meat (such as knives and cutting boards).

Protecting your cat from toxoplasmosis may also protect you from the disease. Feed commercial dry or canned food to your cat. Never give your cat raw meat because it can be a source of Toxoplasma infection. Keep cats indoors to avoid infection from eating small animals. 
&nbsp;

Toxoplasmosis is usually reversible in healthy people. Ill people can be treated with a combination of drugs, including pyrimethamine, sulfadiazine, and folinic acid.

If there is significant inflammation of the eyes or central nervous system, treatment usually consists of clindamycin alone or in combination with corticosteroids.

learn about Tularemia a bacterial infection caused by Francisella tularensis that can affect small mammals, cats, dogs and humans. Explore its symptoms, prevention and treatment.

Tularemia (Francisella tularensis) | Cat Disease | VetandTech

Tularemia (Francisella tularensis)

<img alt="Tularemia (Francisella tularensis) in Cats" src="https://web.dvmcentral.com/file-manager/preview?disk=file-manager&amp;path=Tularemia%20(Francisella%20Tularensis)%20in%20Cats.jpg&amp;v=1682598530" style="height:283px; width:875px" />Bacteria, most commonly known as Francisella tularensis, can cause tularemia. Small mammals like rodents and rabbits are infected with these diseases. However, dogs and cats can also get infected with the infection caused by Francisella tularensis.&nbsp;

How it spreads : The bacteria can spread through tick bites, contact with infected animals, breathing in the bacteria, and contaminated food or water. Cats can get infected by eating or killing infected rodents, small mammals, or tick bites. People also can become infected through cat scratches and bites.

Who is at risk : Tularemia can infect anybody. However, spending a lot of time outdoors, hunting, or butchering wild game have higher chances of getting exposed to this disease.&nbsp;

Signs in cats: The most common symptoms in infected include fatigue, lack of appetite, yellowed eyes, fever, and swelling of lymph glands.&nbsp;

Symptoms in people : People infected with tularemia may suffer from ulcers, fever, lymph gland swelling, muscle or joints pain, weakness, chills. Additionally, F. tularensis bacteria can also impact the respiratory system, throat, and eyes.

Avoid insect bites and apply DEET-containing insect repellent to your skin. When handling sick or dead animals, exercise caution and wear gloves. Ensure your food is thoroughly cooked and your water is safe. Take note of any changes in your pets&#39; behavior and consult a veterinarian if they develop unusual symptoms.

To reduce feline-associated tularemia, a vaccine is required, and cat owners should restrict their pet&#39;s outdoor access. 
&nbsp;

Tularemia can be diagnosed and treated using blood tests and cultures. Streptomycin, gentamicin, doxycycline, and ciprofloxacin are antibiotics used to treat tularemia. Depending on the stage of illness and the medication used, treatment usually lasts 10 to 21 days.

Tularemia necessitates aggressive treatment, including hospitalization and excellent supportive care (e.g., intravenous fluid therapy and antibiotics). Because cats with tularemia have a high mortality rate, early intervention with early diagnosis and treatment is critical to success. 
&nbsp;

Campylobacter&nbsp;are bacteria that can make people and animals sick with a disease called campylobacteriosis.

How it spreads:&nbsp;People get&nbsp;Campylobacter&nbsp;infection by coming into contact with feces (poop) of infected animals, including cats, or by consuming contaminated food or water. Typically,&nbsp;Campylobacter&nbsp;is spread when people don&rsquo;t wash their hands after touching animals or their food, poop, toys, or beds, but it can also sometimes infect you through an open wound. Cats commonly become infected by eating contaminated raw meat and shed the bacteria in their poop.

Who is at risk:&nbsp;Anyone can get a&nbsp;Campylobacter&nbsp;infection, but children younger than 5 years of age, adults over 65 years of age, and people with weakened immune systems are more at risk for serious illness.

Signs in cats:&nbsp;Cats may appear healthy and show no signs of&nbsp;Campylobacter&nbsp;infection or they can have diarrhea that may be bloody.

Symptoms in people:&nbsp;People can have diarrhea (often bloody), fever, and stomach cramps. The diarrhea may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Symptoms usually start within 2&ndash;5 days after infection and last about 1 week.

<h2>Stay Healthy Around Pet Cats&nbsp;</h2>

You love cats and decided to adopt a pet cat. But what&#39;s next? As a responsible human being, you must choose the right type of cat that can easily adjust in your family. More importantly, don&#39;t forget to visit a veterinarian for a complete checkup of the new addition in your family. Because sometimes, cats carry germs despite appearing clean and healthy. In this way, you cannot only keep your cats healthy but can take care of your family&#39;s health too. Here are the following precautions that you should take;

<ul>
	<li>Don&#39;t forget to wash your hands with soaps/liquids every time after handling cats, their foods, water pots, and other supplies. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>After having direct or indirect contact with cat saliva or poop.</li>
	<li>After cleaning the pets and particularly their litter box.</li>
	<li>After gardening, especially if you have created a cat-friendly garden.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Before you consume food or drink water.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Its the responsibility of the adult owners to ensure the hand washing of the minors or children under their supervision.</li>
	<li>Always use hand sanitizer in case of unavailability of water or soap. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>The best thing you can do is wear gloves every time you contact the cats, i.e., cleaning, petting, feeding, etc.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h3>Clean Yourself Up</h3>

All the time, we talk about the health and protection of pets. But what precautions are you taking to protect yourself from germs and stay healthy? You should be very cautious about cleaning yourself up, especially after cleaning a cat&#39;s litter box, because cats&#39; poop is the major cause of infectious diseases. Therefore you should;&nbsp;

<h3>Change the litter boxes daily.&nbsp;</h3>

Regardless of whether or not you are using gloves to clean the litter box, you should always wash your hands once done with the cleaning.&nbsp; 
Pregnant women, children, and people with weak immune systems should avoid contact with the cat&#39;s saliva, poop, or litter box because they are always at a higher risk of getting infected with several diseases. However, if there&#39;s no option, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands every time you contact cats or their supplies.&nbsp; 
Keep your cat&#39;s litter box away from the kitchen, food preparation areas, and importantly children.&nbsp;

<h3>Prevent Cat Scratches &amp; Bites</h3>

As we have already discussed in the articles, various diseases spread among people due to the bites and scratches of the cats. Because they can spread germs, no matter if the scratches or bites are deep or not, for instance, you can get infected only if the scratch just breaks the skin&#39;s surface.&nbsp;

It has been estimated that approximately 20-80% of cat bite incidents resulted in infections. However, it is also a fact that most incidents of cat bites and scratches are not being reported. So, here&#39;s a question: how can one prevent cat bites and scratches? Here are the following tips that can help you in keeping yourself away from such incidents:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Try to avoid contact with unfamiliar animals. Don&#39;t be aggressive and handle them with care even if they seem friendly.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Suppose you are involved in rough playing with kittens and cats. Then stop doing so! Because rough play can make your cats defensive towards people.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>According to different studies, cats generally bite when provoked. Therefore, you should avoid rough play, particularly when animals, i.e., cats, are young.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>To prevent scratches, trim your cat&#39;s nails regularly. You can also get the help of health care professionals. Moreover, as a responsible parent, you should tell children to let you know if they are bitten or scratched by the cats.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h3>Care For Cat&#39;s Bites Or Scratches&nbsp;</h3>

Bitten or scratched by the cat? If so, then read the following guidelines carefully.&nbsp;

Wash the affected area or wound with warm soapy water immediately after being bitten by a cat.&nbsp;

Don&#39;t be late to seek medical attention if:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>You are unaware of the cat&#39;s vaccination status against rabies.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The cat appears unclean or sick.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The wound is serious and becomes painful, warm, swollen, or red.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>You haven&#39;t gotten a tetanus shot in the last five years.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Inform and report the bite to animal control or your local health department if:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>A stray cat bites you.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The bite is unprovoked.</li>
	<li>You don&#39;t know whether or not the cat is vaccinated against rabies.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h2>How Can You Keep Your Pet Cats Healthy?&nbsp;</h2>

<h3>The cleanliness of and the health of your cats is imperative for your family&#39;s health too. So, in this article, I will discuss the complete details about the easy ways to keep your pets clean and healthy.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Before Choosing a Cat</h3>

<ul>
	<li>There are certain types of cats or kittens available for adoption. But you should always keep in mind that not every type is suitable for your family. In addition, international pet adoption is not recommended due to the higher risk of diseases and infections, particularly when infants, young children, pregnant women, and people suffering from certain health complications or have weak immune systems in your family.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>You must completely understand the appropriate care while adopting a cat. For this purpose, you should consult with the veterinarians or pet store staff about the proper care, food, environment, or other necessary things about the cat you will select.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Cats may shed hookworms, roundworms, Giardia, or other germs in their poop. Therefore, experts recommend changing the litter boxes daily. Also, as discussed several times, wash your hands after cleaning the litter box.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h3>Things to Keep in Mind While Choosing a Cat</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Match a cat&#39;s personality and, more importantly, the traits with your family and pets you have already owned.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Always choose a cat that is playful, active, and bright. Ensure that the cats have soft and shiny fur that doesn&#39;t contain poop and debris.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ensure that the cat or kitten doesn&#39;t have signs such as; abnormal breathing, depression, sluggishness, and fluid running from the nose or eyes.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>After a week or a couple of days of adoption, take your cat or kitten to the veterinarian&#39;s clinic for a complete medical checkup.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>If your cat becomes sick or expires soon after purchase or adoption, consult with the veterinarian immediately. Don&#39;t forget to inform the rescue organizations, pet stores, and breeders about the death or illness.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h3>How to House Your Cat?&nbsp;</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Make every possible effort to provide a safe, clean, warm, and comfortable place and an environment for the cat to live in. You can also take a health care professional&#39;s suggestions for creating and maintaining the environment for your cat.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>If your cat is living outside the house (in the garden), provide shelter according to the weather conditions such as; hot, cold or rainy. Moreover, your cats must have access to an indoor shelter to stay safe from predators.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Provide fresh food and water to the pets every day. Wash the cat&#39;s water or food dishes regularly.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h3>Monitor Cat&#39;s Health</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Take your cat to the veterinarian for a routine medical checkup, which keeps your pet healthy and prevents diseases.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Follow all directions of the veterinarians and treatments for bacteria, parasites, fleas, ticks, heartworms, etc.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Clean up any poop or vomit in the house and, more importantly, disinfect that area. Wash your hands immediately after cleaning. &nbsp;</li>
	<li>If you notice any signs of illness or any unusual physical or behavioral changes in your pet, contact immediately with the veterinarian. Sometimes, it might be possible that cats seem healthy, but they can still transfer germs to people and other animals. &nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h3>Don&#39;t Forget to Get Your Cat Vaccinated</h3>

Rabies and feline distemper vaccine is very important for protecting cats from life-threatening diseases. Also, give the veterinarian complete information about the cat&#39;s lifestyle and health. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Learn about a healthy cat, common cat diseases their symptoms and treatments, and discover the benefits of owning a cat. Find out more in this informative article.

Cat Diseases and Symptoms | Healthy Cats | VetandTech

Cats

<img alt="" src="https://web.dvmcentral.com/up_data/editor/Campylobacteriosis (Campylobacter spp.) 6.png" />

Did You know approximately 40 million U.S. households have pet cats? Yes, it&#39;s true! Emotional support, a happy mood, and the contribution to the overall morale of the pet owners are some of the major reasons behind this increasing trend. However, cats also play an important role in promoting socialization among mentally or physically distorted people and older individuals. However, researchers have shown cats as great companions and beneficial for human well-being. But, there are also some health risks associated with having cats in the house, and pet owners must be aware of them.

Sometimes, cats carry harmful germs that can cause illnesses to people, such as skin infections and serious illnesses. So, here&#39;s a question: How can pet owners reduce the risk of catching an infection? The answer is obvious. The best thing to protect yourself is to ensure complete hygiene, including washing hands after handling or feeding cats. Moreover, don&#39;t forget to get your pets to the veterinary clinic for a routine medical checkup, which is also very important for the health of both pets and owners. Moreover, this article will discuss the most common diseases, cures, and ways to minimize the risk of getting sick from touching, petting, or owning a cat. If you want to know more about the infection or diseases that the cats can spread? Then let&#39;s dive deeper into the article.&nbsp;

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Vet Resources

Common Diseases

Common Diseases

Cats