About 40% of cats carry the bacteria at some time in their lives, although kittens younger than 1 year of age are more likely to have it. Campylobacter bacteria can cause serious life-threatening infections in infants, older persons, and those with weakened immune systems.Ĭat-scratch Disease (Bartonella henselae)Ĭat-scratch disease is a bacterial disease that people may get after being bitten or scratched by a cat. Most people who become sick with campylobacteriosis will have diarrhea, cramping, abdominal pain, and fever within 2-5 days after exposure to the organism. Cats infected with Campylobacter may show no signs of illness at all or may have diarrhea. The description of these diseases and parasitic disorders is republished below to demonstrate why it is so important for cat owners to take care of their pets, which, in turn will help keep all family members healthy.Ĭampylobacter is a type of bacteria that spreads through contaminated food (meat and eggs), water, or contact with stool (poop) of infected animals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the leading public health institute in the United States, contains a plethora of scientific information and data on its website, including “he most common diseases associated with cats that can cause human illness.” The transmission of diseases between people and pets is the basis for the “One Health Initiative” whose goal is to “unite human and veterinary medicine.” Check out their website, where you will find information about the history of this organization and the important work they are undertaking to share information about the new or re-emerging diseases, 70% of which are zoonotic (spread between animals and humans) or vector-borne (transmitted by vectors, including insects).Īs recently discussed here, cats, like other animals can harbor and transmit a number of diseases and parasites to humans. This is one reason that proper veterinary care through routine visits to a veterinarian is so important. Many pet owners are unaware of the diseases and parasites their pets may harbor that can cause illness to humans. Pets are increasingly important in this and other developed countries.