15 Dangerous Illnesses Kids Can Catch From Pets

Pets bring joy and companionship to family life. Having a pet can teach kids about responsibility, empathy, and the cycle of life. One common consideration that families have when getting a pet is the pet’s temperament and how it may affect their little ones. However, being aware of the potential health implications (e.g. disease transmission) if the pet is not properly cared for is also vital.

Rabies

Although incredibly rare, rabies is an extremely dangerous disease with a 99.9% mortality rate if not treated promptly. Rabies is normally transmitted through a bite or scratch from an infected animal. Vaccinating your pets against Rabies is the best way to prevent this disease. If an animal bites your child, immediately clean the wound with soap and water and seek medical attention right away, which may include a series of prophylactic vaccines.

Ringworm

Ringworm isn’t actually caused by a worm but is a type of fungal infection. Direct contact with an infected pet can quickly spread the fungus to your child, causing itchy, red, circular rashes. Groom your pet regularly and keep its living area clean to prevent the infection from spreading. If your child develops symptoms, a simple antifungal cream will usually help, but you should still visit the doctor for a medical evaluation.

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis primarily affects cats but can also spread to humans. Cats contract this parasite from infected rodents or birds, and then it can easily spread to your child through their feces. Keep your cat indoors to minimize risk and always use gloves when cleaning the litter box. Toxoplasma gondii also poses a great threat to the fetuses of pregnant women.

Campylobacteriosis

Campylobacteriosis is one of the most common bacterial infections in humans. Transmission occurs through fecal matter from puppies and dogs, especially those suffering from diarrhea. Wash your and your child’s hands after handling pets or cleaning up after them to prevent infection.

Giardia

Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes diarrhea in humans and animals. Infections occur by eating something contaminated by the feces of an infected pet. Prevention includes washing hands thoroughly after contact with pets, especially before meals. If your child shows symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea, seek medical help as rehydration and medication may be necessary. 

Salmonellosis

Salmonella is often associated with uncooked or undercooked meats, but pets, especially reptiles and birds, can also be carriers. Direct or even indirect contact with an infected pet can lead to infections in kids. Typical symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. The primary prevention method is thoroughly washing your hands after handling the pet. 

Cat-Scratch Disease

Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is an infection that is caused by scratches or bites from a cat. Since most kittens aren’t familiar with gentle play, they are the most common source of CSD. This disease causes sensitive lymph nodes, fatigue, and mild fever. If a cat bites you or your child, use disinfectants such as medical alcohol and povidone-iodine on the wound. 

Brucellosis

Brucellosis is primarily caused by the consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. However, accidental ingestion of the bacteria from contaminated fur or direct contact with an infected pet’s bodily fluids can also lead to infection. Make sure your household pets aren’t consuming raw milk products, and wash your hands after playing with your pet.

Bubonic Plague

The disease is spread by fleas that have bitten an infected animal. Both cats and dogs can carry these fleas into your home. Although bubonic plague infections are very rare in humans, regular flea checks and control treatments for your pets are recommended. 

Lyme Disease

Humans and animals can catch Lyme Disease through the bite of infected ticks. Dogs and cats that spend time outside can bring ticks into your home, which can bite and infect you or your kids. Make sure to regularly check your pets and yourself for ticks after being outdoors.

Encephalitozoon Cuniculi

Encephalitozoon Cuniculi is a microscopic spore-forming unicellular parasite that pet rabbits commonly carry. The parasite infects humans through direct contact or by inhaling the spores from an infected pet. Though infection in humans is rare, it could be more serious in those with weakened immune systems. Hygiene practices like washing hands thoroughly after handling pets are generally enough for prevention.

Cryptosporidiosis

A parasitic disease called Cryptosporidiosis can make its way to humans from pets. Both dogs and cats can carry this bug. It primarily affects the intestines, causing watery diarrhea alongside potential stomach pains and fever. Clean water and thorough handwashing are the best defense against this disease.

Psittacosis

Also known as parrot fever, Psittacosis jumps to humans from infected birds, generally of the parrot family. The bacteria that cause this disease, Chlamydophila psittaci, can be found in the feces and nasal secretions of infected birds. Humans are often infected through inhalation. Symptoms resemble flu-like ailments, which can progress to pneumonia if left untreated. Frequent and proper cleaning of bird cages along with good personal hygiene can help prevent the spread of this infection. 

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is an infection typically transmitted to humans through the urine of infected animals or contaminated water. The usual transmitters are dogs, rodents, and farm animals. Symptoms range from mild and flu-like to severe, including jaundice, kidney damage, and bleeding. If caught and treated early, the overall outcome is generally positive. Severe symptoms warrant a visit to the hospital.

Toxocariasis

Toxocariasis is another zoonotic disease that some pets can transmit to their owners. Dogs and cats infected with these roundworms can shed their eggs in feces, which contaminate the environment. If children come in contact with infected soil or sand, they can accidentally ingest the eggs. Symptoms range from cough and fever to more severe complications like vision loss. 

Scabies

Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by a tiny mite known as Sarcoptes scabiei. Sharing towels or bedding with an infected person or pet can spread the disease. Its symptoms include intense itching, rashes, and sores due to scratching. Scabies are easy to treat once diagnosed, typically with creams or lotions to kill the mites. Regular washing of bed sheets and other items close to the skin can also help with prevention.

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