Cats that live on the streets have to face many challenges every day to be able to continue. They have to protect themselves from those who treat them badly, from traffic in towns and cities, from inclement weather, from other furry ones ... Survival is not easy for them, even if they grew up in that environment. In fact, it is estimated that their life expectancy does not exceed three years; and there are many who do not meet both.
Therefore, when deciding to adopt one of them we have to know the diseases transmitted by stray cats, as this way we can take the appropriate measures to help you regain your health.
Tub
It is one of the most common and contagious diseases. It is caused by a fungus that, when manifested, appears circular red patches on the skin of the affected person. While not serious, you will need topical antifungal medications to get better.
You must bear in mind that, although a cat can infect you, it is easier for you to contract it in humid placeslike swimming pools.
More about ringworm here.
Cat-scratch disease
This is a disease caused by a bacterium of the genus Bartonella, which infects the cat with fleas and ticks that carry this microorganism. It's not serious either, but if you have a compromised immune system you may need medical attention.
If a cat has it, biting or scratching a person could give it to them. After a couple of weeks, symptoms will appear such as fever, fatigue, general malaise, bumps or blisters at the site of the injury, among others. If necessary, they will prescribe antibiotics.
More on cat scratch disease here.
Rage
Anger is a viral infection of the central nervous system that can be transmitted by animals such as dogs, cats and even people. The way in which the virus reaches the affected body is through saliva. Sadly, it is deadly.
The most common symptoms are sudden mood swings, irritability, listlessness, and general malaise. Taking this into account, The first thing to do when adopting a stray cat is to take it to the vet for examination, for their safety and yours.
More about rabies in cats here.
Toxoplasmosis
It is the disease that worries people the most, especially pregnant women. It is transmitted by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii found in the feces of felines, who are the main hosts.
Even though it is very contagious, the only way to get it is by ingesting feces from an infected cat, something no one does on purpose. But when sandboxes are cleaned without gloves, it is easy to get fecal material on the fingernails, and if they are not washed well with soap and water, the parasite could infect us.
It is not serious, in fact there are usually no symptoms. But sometimes the doctor may recommend antibiotics.
More about toxoplasmosis here.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus and Feline Leukemia
These are two very contagious diseases among cats. If at home you already have a feline that you know is healthy, you never have to take a stray one that you see very sick without first going to the vet as you could endanger the life and health of your »old» friend.
More on the feline immunodeficiency virus and the feline leukemia.
Whenever you have doubts, consult a trusted professional.
I am desperate, I have my old woman, malita, she does not fix her gaze, she has not eaten all day and I do not know what is wrong with her, she does not move much or nothing and every time I touch her belly, someone makes a very strange noise to tell me It can pass by, I don't know what to do.
Hi Loli.
I'm sorry but I don't know how to tell you. I am not a veterinarian.
I highly recommend that you take her to one. If you are that old, you need it urgently.
Much encouragement.