Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are some common diseases (zoonosis) transmitted by animals to humans?
A. Some of the common diseases are:

• Rabies is a very dangerous disease that can be transmitted to humans from any warm blooded animal. See our section on rabies for more information about the disease and precautions you should take if bitten or scratched by an animal.

• The bacteria that cause a strep throat infection are commonly transmitted to humans by cats.

• Parasites such as mites, lice, tapeworm, roundworms, and ringworm (a fungus) are common to both our feline and canine friends.

• It is estimated that nearly half of all cats carry the microbe responsible for an infection known as "cat scratch fever."

• Many other diseases transmitted by animals can be a potential health risk, especially if the animal isn't properly cared for.