Preventing Diseases from your Cat
By HollywoodPet.net |
Fri, 29 Dec 2006
Cats can carry disease like other animals. Preventing getting diseases from your pets is based on good common sense. Pets to people diseases are called zoonotic diseases and can be prevented with a little bit of care. Cats carry as many diseases as other pets, but smart care can prevent problems. Young children are susceptible to diseases too. Here is a list of good measures to keep you, your children and your cat happy.
Avoid close contact.
Avoid allowing your cat to lick your face. Avoid kissing your pets too. Check your cat, dog and yourself for ticks on a regular basis. Remove ticks gently to avoid the introduction of germs from squeezing the tick.
Take sanitary measures.
Never handle your cats stools. Wear gloves or use a tool like a plastic scoop. If you are bitten or scratched by your cat, be sure to wash the area thoroughly. Soap and water, and antiseptic are a good start. If infection starts, see your doctor immediately. Remember to keep unwashed hands out of your ears, nose, mouth and eyes. Germs can infect quickly in these areas. Take precautions to protect yourself.
Wash up.
Wash your hands after playing, touching, handling or caring for your cat or pets. If you are doing yard work where pets have been, be sure to wash your hands or wear gloves if possible.
Womans concerns.
Woman should avoid cleaning catboxes if they are pregnant. Wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly if you must do catbox cleanup.
Disease prevention.
Make sure your cat is protected against disease. Up to date shots and regular checkups can go a long way in avoiding problems. See your veterinarian often.
Preventing disease being spread from your cat to you is much like preventing getting disease from any animal. Zoonotic disease prevention is about good hygiene. Washing your hands frequently is a solid first step. Keeping in mind these basics can help.
