Having a multi pet household can offer a lot of fun and excitement for you and your pets. However, problems may arise when one of your pets contracts a contagious illness. Thus, it is very important to understand what illnesses are contagious, and in particular, which illnesses and diseases can cats get from dogs. This article covers some of the most popular contagious diseases found in dogs (parvo, kennel cough, and mange) and discuss whether your cat can catch these illnesses from your dog.
Can cats get parvo from dogs?
It is very unlikely that your cat will get parvo (Parvovirus) from your dog, as the disease is species specific. Parvo in cats is actually referred to as panleukopenia. Cats can develop parvo when they ingest bodily fluids (blood, feces, urine, saliva) of an infected cat. Parvo deteriorates the intestines and cells lining the intestinal tract. This primarily targets white blood cells, and can cause a series of infections if left untreated.
Parvo symptoms in cats:
Parvo symptoms in cats include vomiting and diarrhea, fever, and an inconsistent appetite. In order to prevent your cat from getting parvo, make sure your cat receives the FVRCP vaccine. Parvo is 90% fatal if left untreated.
Can cats get kennel cough from dogs?
Yes, kennel cough is a highly contagious disease that can be transmitted from a dog to a cat. The illness can even spread to humans. Since cats can get kennel cough from dogs, it is very important to isolate a dog that has been diagnosed with kennel cough.
How does kennel cough spread?
Kennel cough is a respiratory bacterial illness that is spread by either direct contact, air particles, or by contaminated objects and surfaces. If one of your pets develops kennel cough, isolate him/her from other pets as well as from humans with weak immune systems.
Symptoms of kennel cough in cats:
Symptoms of kennel cough in cats are similar to cold symptoms in humans. They include:
- Respiratory issues (cough, sneezing, trouble breathing)
- Runny nose
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
Kennel cough treatment in cats:
Similar to human colds, kennel cough in cats can lead to dangerous illnesses like pneumonia if not treated properly. It is important that you take your cat to the vet if you suspect your cat has kennel cough. Treatment will likely include prescribed rest and possibly antibiotics.
Can cats get mange from dogs?
Yes. Cats usually contract mange from contaminated surfaces, so if a contaminated dog brushes against a surface, mange may spread from the surface to your cat. Mange is a skin infection that is caused by the infestation of mites on the skin. If the mites multiply quickly, it can cause serious infection.
Symptoms of mange in cats:
Mange symptoms in cats include fatigue, excessive scratching, skin irritation, and hair loss. Mange usually starts on a cats ear or face.
Cat mange treatment:
It is really important to treat mange as soon as possible. If left untreated, mange will likely spread throughout the cat’s body. Mange can also spread from cats to humans. If you suspect your cat has mange, isolate it from other pets and humans and take it to the vet as soon as you can. Your vet will likely give you shampoo or topical cream to kill the mites. In extreme cases, vets will administer injections to your cat.
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