Much like humans, cats can contract viruses that cause upper respiratory infections and show many of the same cold symptoms that we do. However, it's important to note that you can't catch a cold from your cat since the viruses that affect felines don't affect humans.
Can cats pass respiratory infections to humans?
Most of the infectious diseases that cause upper respiratory infections in cats are very species-specific and do not represent any risk to people.
Can I get sick from my cat sneezing on me?
Cats also can get a herpes virus that can cause upper respiratory problems, including sneezing. This virus can be spread to people by contact with the discharge, and can cause some irritation. If you follow proper cleanliness after handling your sneezing cats, your risk for exposure is minimal.
Can I catch a virus from my cat?
Cats can transmit Toxoplasma to people through their feces, but humans most commonly become infected by eating undercooked or raw meat, or by inadvertently consuming contaminated soil on unwashed or undercooked vegetables. The symptoms of toxoplasmosis include flu-like muscle aches and fever, and headache.
Can humans get sick from sick cats?
The answer is yes. There are actually a number of diseases you can contract catch from your cat, known broadly as zoonotic diseases. The word “zoonotic” is used to describe any disease that is transmittable from animals to humans. The best known and most feared example of a zoonotic disease is rabies.
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