Look what the cat dragged in. It isn’t pretty. Our beloved pet felines, when allowed to wander outdoors, can bring home parasites and pathogens aplenty. Some of those can cause health problems for their human owners.
A new study led by Canadian researchers shows that outdoor pet cats are just as likely to test positive for pathogens as feral cats. Each type of wandering kitty sports a pathogen positivity rate of 18%.
The fact that our purring pets regularly visit the vet, eat healthy food and sleep in a clean space doesn’t shield them. In fact, they are three to five times more likely to bring home nasty guests than indoor cats.
The study analyzed data from 174,000 cats in 88 countries and identified 124 pathogen species. Of those, 97 were zoonotic, meaning they can also infect people.
The findings will inform public health efforts against the spread of the disease caused by these infections. Up to now, health officials have usually focused on feral cats.
Among the bugs that can be carried into our homes, the study says, are parasites that can cause pregnancy complications and neurological problems. Other hitchhikers include parasitic roundworms, the bacteria that cause cat-scratch fever and many others.
So, what’s up?
The short answer is that it doesn’t take long to come in contact with infected prey or other sources of contamination. Don’t forget: That loveable kitty snuggling with you likes to hunt.
Keeping your cat indoors protects your cat and your family. Also, consider this horrific fact. Scientists estimate that outdoor cats in a municipality of just 12,000 homes collectively deposit 77 tons of fecal matter annually.
You’re forewarned. Watch your step.