Zoonotic Diseases: 5 Ways to Avoid Catching Them

Author: K. Marie Altoby K Marie Alto Updated 2 min read

Puppy snuggling a kitten

What does zoonotic mean?

While the word zoonotic sounds like a friendly place full of animals, it’s actually used to describe an infection or disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

Some of the most common infections/diseases include the following:

While it’s possible for your fur baby to contract one of these infections/diseases, you can avoid them by taking some simple precautions.

  1. Keep new rescues away from existing fur babies until they are given the all-clear from the vet. This can help prevent the spreading of minor illnesses as well as more problematic diseases.
  2. Vaccinations – the most obvious solution, but one that is often inconsistent. Consult with your veterinarian to ensure vaccinations (and boosters) are given at the appropriate age to keep both you and your fur baby protected.
  3. Wear gloves while cleaning the litter box or picking up after your pup. While it’s good practice to wash your hands after cleaning up after your fur baby, many of us do not wash our hands long enough, with the appropriate amount of soap, and temperature of water (all of which are important in killing undesirable infections). Gloves are a great option, especially when combined with handwashing!
  4. Don’t let your fur baby mingle with stray or wild animals. These animals are more likely to carry infections and diseases that can be transferred to your fur baby. If you do go outside (like the average pup), it’s important to keep up with regular flea and tick treatments.
  5. Keep an eye out for fur loss, scratching, and/or diarrhea. These are all common signs of various infections/diseases. If you notice something of concern, try to separate the little one from other fur babies until a vet can diagnose and begin treating the source of the issue.

Seeing this list of infections and diseases can be overwhelming to someone who has never had a fur baby in their home, but rest assured that with proper hygiene and regular vet visits the risk of contracting one of these infections is significantly reduced.

Most people will agree, the benefits of sharing your life with a furry animal is worth the manageable risks.

Has your fur baby ever had a zoonotic infection/disease? Did you catch it?

Read More Cat Care Guides

One more thing, if you are feeling like getting a little special something for your fur baby that is unique, made right here in the USA, 100% pup and cat safe, USDA certified organic and brought to you by a US company, check out Toe Beans online pet supplies store!

K Marie Alto
K Marie Alto

K. Marie is an animal lover, wife, kitty mom, dog auntie, writer, and co-founder of Toe Beans, a proud American family-owned online boutique pet supplies store focused on the improvement of the life of furry family members via pet parent education, better products, and advocacy. She has over 20 years of experience as a pet momma. She loves sharing her personal journey and experience as a pet parent via her blog and Facebook page where she currently has more than 50K followers (@furrytoebeans) and counting :-). Read more

Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in Pet Parents Blog by Toe Beans

Simple Ways to Maintain Your Dog's Dental Hygiene at Home
Simple Ways to Maintain Your Dog's Dental Hygiene at Home

by K Marie Alto October 31, 2024 8 min read

Learn how to maintain your dog's dental hygiene at home with simple tips for brushing, choosing better food, and promoting long-term oral health and comfort.
5 Essential Images for Understanding Kitten Growth Phases
5 Essential Images for Understanding Kitten Growth Phases

by K Marie Alto October 24, 2024 9 min read

Learn about the five essential stages of kitten growth and how they develop from newborns to active young cats, with images to guide you through each phase.
What Are Dog GPS Trackers and How Do They Work?
What Are Dog GPS Trackers and How Do They Work?

by K Marie Alto October 17, 2024 8 min read

Discover how dog GPS trackers work to keep your furry friends safe, learn about the types available, and find the best option for your needs with our guide.