Can Humans Get Cats Sick?

Humans and animals have been living side by side for thousands of years, and sometimes, that closeness comes with shared germs. When diseases jump from animals to people, it’s called zoonosis — think COVID-19, avian flu, and swine flu. Outbreaks like these have brought renewed attention to how animals, from livestock to household pets, can impact human health.

But what about the other way around? Can you pass an illness to your cat? Research suggests that reverse zoonosis (or when humans pass diseases to animals) is also possible. 

In this article, we’ll explore which human illnesses can affect cats, how transmission occurs, and what you can do to protect your furry bestie when you’re feeling unwell.

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Can cats get sick from humans?

Yes, cats can contract illnesses from humans, although it’s relatively rare. Cats have different immune systems and biological makeups, which protect them from many human pathogens. Still, it’s good to know when and how illnesses might spread so you can help keep your cat healthy. 

Which illnesses can humans pass to cats? 

While most human illnesses don’t affect cats, a few infectious agents have the potential to jump from humans to felines. This type of transmission is most commonly seen in households with close human-animal contact (such as sharing beds, kisses, and snuggles).

The following illnesses are most often linked to human-to-cat transmission.

Influenza A (flu)

Certain strains of Influenza A, including H1N1, have been shown to pass from humans to cats. Transmission typically occurs through close contact with an infected person’s respiratory droplets. Infected cats may develop mild respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and lethargy.

COVID-19

SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has been detected in cats who have been exposed to humans infected with the virus. While most cats show mild-to-no symptoms, some may experience breathing issues, reduced appetite, or fatigue. The risk of transmission is low, but possible, especially in households with close contact.

Ringworm (dermatophytosis)

Despite the name, ringworm is actually a fungal infection, not a worm. It’s highly contagious and can easily spread between humans and cats through direct contact or contaminated objects, such as bedding or furniture. In cats, it often appears as circular patches of hair loss, scaly skin, or itchiness. Kittens and immunocompromised cats are especially vulnerable.

Cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis (aka crypto) is an illness you get from the parasite Cryptosporidium. This microscopic, waterborne parasite affects the small intestines and can cause diarrhea in humans and animals. Infected people may inadvertently pass the parasite to cats through contaminated surfaces. It’s especially risky for kittens, senior kitties, or cats with weakened immune systems.

Giardia

Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes gastrointestinal upset and can affect humans and cats. Although it’s more common for humans to contract giardia from contaminated water or infected animals, reverse transmission is possible through contact with infected stool. In cats, giardia can cause diarrhea, soft stools, weight loss, or dehydration, particularly in kittens or immunocompromised cats.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

MRSA is a type of antibiotic-resistant staph infection that humans can transmit to pets through skin-to-skin contact. Cats carrying MRSA may not show symptoms but can develop skin infections or abscesses. 

Salmonella

A salmonella infection is a bacterial illness that affects the digestive system. People usually become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with feces. Infected humans can shed the bacteria in their stool. If hands aren’t thoroughly washed after using the bathroom, salmonella can spread to household surfaces, such as countertops, floors, or food bowls, which cats might lick. Some cats with salmonella are asymptomatic, while others may develop symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or lethargy.

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Is my cat sick?

Cats are notoriously good at hiding illnesses, which can make it tricky to tell when something’s wrong. If you’ve been dealing with a health issue and are worried you may have passed something on to your cat, keep an eye out for changes in their behavior or appearance.

Signs your cat might be sick include:

• Sneezing, coughing, or nasal discharge

• Lethargy or decreased activity

• Loss of appetite or refusal to eat

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Changes in litter box habits

• Skin lesions, hair loss, or excessive scratching

• Breathing difficulties or wheezing

• Hiding more than usual or acting irritable

Even mild symptoms can be a red flag, especially if they develop shortly after you’ve been sick. If your cat shows any of these signs, or if something just seems off, visit your veterinarian.

How to help your cat stay healthy when you’re sick

If you’re feeling under the weather, there are a few precautions you can take to help keep your cat safe, especially if you’re dealing with something contagious.

• Limit close contact: As hard as it may be, try to avoid face-to-face snuggles, kisses, or letting your cat sleep right next to you. 

• Wash your hands often: Always wash your hands after using the bathroom and before feeding your cat, cleaning their litter box, or handling their toys.

• Don’t share food or drinks: Avoid letting your cat lick your spoon, plate, or cup.

• Clean commonly used spaces: Wipe down frequently used surfaces, such as countertops, floors, and pet bowls, to reduce the risk of transmission.

• Keep your cat’s immune system strong: Make sure your cat is eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and is up-to-date on vaccinations and vet check-ups.

• Designate another caregiver if possible: If you’re very ill or quarantined, ask a healthy family member or friend to help care for your cat temporarily.

• Call your vet: If your cat starts showing signs of illness while you’re sick, call your vet. Although the risk of transmission is generally low, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

• Separate any sick pets from other animals in the home: If one of your cats is showing signs of illness, keep them isolated in a quiet, comfortable space until they can be seen by a vet. This helps prevent the possible spread of infection to other pets.

Commonly asked questions

Can humans give cats colds?

No, the viruses that cause the common cold in humans typically don’t infect cats. However, in rare cases, humans can transmit certain strains of the flu. Cats can also develop upper respiratory infections, which are similar to human colds. 

Do indoor cats carry diseases?

Indoor cats are generally at lower risk of carrying infectious diseases. But it’s still possible, especially if they’ve had outdoor exposure in the past, live with other pets, or aren’t up to date on vaccinations. 

Can I still cuddle my cat if I’m sick?

If you’re sick with something that could potentially spread to your cat, such as the flu or COVID-19, avoid cuddling your cat and keep your distance until you’re feeling better.

Should I take my cat to the vet if I think I made them sick?

If your cat starts showing signs of illness shortly after you’ve been sick, contact your vet. While most human-to-cat transmission is rare and mild, a vet can determine the cause and recommend treatment if needed.

Are shelter cats healthy? 

Many shelter cats are healthy, though some may develop minor illnesses from stress or close contact with other animals. Reputable shelters screen for health issues, provide medical care, and disclose any known conditions to potential adopters.

Resources 

“Humans Can Get Their Cats Sick with Seasonal Flu. “Global Health | Duke Kunshan University, 13 May 2024, globalhealth.dukekunshan.edu.cn/news/humans-can-get-their-cats-sick-with-seasonal-flu.

Khalil, Ahmed Magdy, et al. “Zoonosis and Zooanthroponosis of Emerging Respiratory Viruses.” Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, vol. 13, 2023, p. 1232772, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38249300, doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2023.1232772.

Le Beau Lucchesi, Emilie. “Zoonotic Diseases Can Happen in Reverse, Which Could Get Your Pet Sick.” Discover Magazine, 2024, www.discovermagazine.com/planet-earth/zoonotic-diseases-can-happen-in-reverse-which-could-get-your-pet-sick. 

Messenger, Ali M., et al. “Reverse Zoonotic Disease Transmission (Zooanthroponosis): A Systematic Review of Seldom-Documented Human Biological Threats to Animals.” PLoS ONE, vol. 9, no. 2, 28 Feb. 2014, p. e89055, journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0089055, doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0089055.