Understanding Pet-Associated Diseases: Enhancing Pet Ownership Knowledge

Zoonotic Diseases

In 1959, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) defined zoonotic diseases as "diseases and infections naturally transmitted between vertebrate animals and humans." Zoonotic diseases are a significant factor affecting both veterinary and public health. Studies have shown that out of 1415 human diseases, 61% are zoonotic, with 175 considered "emerging" diseases, of which 132 are zoonotic.

Classification of Zoonotic Diseases

Zoonotic diseases have diverse types, and with the increasing variety of pets kept by humans, the threat to humans from pet-associated zoonotic diseases is also increasing. There are various classification methods for pet-associated zoonotic diseases, which can be academic or based on prevention and control needs.

1. Classification by Pathogen Type

Based on the type of pathogen, pet-associated zoonotic diseases can be categorized into three types:
    A. Viral pet-associated zoonotic diseases
    B. Bacterial pet-associated zoonotic diseases
    C. Parasitic pet-associated zoonotic diseases.

2. Classification by Prevention and Control Strategies

Pet-associated zoonotic diseases can also be classified into two types based on prevention and control strategies:
A. Domestic pet-associated zoonotic diseases.
B. Overseas pet-associated zoonotic diseases.

Common Diseases

While pets bring many positive effects to people, they also pose several social challenges. Issues such as pet bites causing injuries, nuisance barking, pets defecating in public places, and the threat of large aggressive pets endangering others' safety are prevalent. Furthermore, pet diseases like rabies, toxoplasmosis, canine tapeworm infection, cat scratch disease, psittacosis transmitted by pigeons, and psittacosis pose significant negative impacts on human health.

Dogs, Cats, and Rabies

Rabies is a fatal viral disease caused by the rabies virus. According to WHO, approximately 55,000 people die from rabies worldwide each year. In Asia, one person dies from rabies every 15 minutes, with 50% being children under 15 years old. China ranks second globally in rabies deaths. In recent years, the number of rabies cases and deaths in China remains high, with dogs and cats being the main rabies transmitters.

Dogs and Avian Influenza

There have been several cases of cats dying from avian influenza in Europe and Asia. In 2007, at least a hundred stray cats were infected with avian influenza in Indonesia. Cats, tigers, and leopards have been infected with the H5N1 virus by eating infected birds. Cats, being carnivorous mammals, are in close proximity to humans as pets, making them potential carriers and posing a greater threat to humans. Studies are still underway to understand the role of pets like cats and dogs in the transmission of avian influenza. In November 2009, two cases of dogs infected with H1N1 flu were reported in China, indicating possible transmission of human influenza to dogs. Similarly, humans can transmit H1N1 flu to cats.

Dogs and Brucellosis

Brucellosis, caused by the Brucella bacterium, is a zoonotic infectious disease affecting humans and animals. It is widely distributed globally, with over 160 countries and regions reporting brucellosis outbreaks. Dogs are important sources of infection.

Cats and Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, is a zoonotic disease affecting humans and animals. Cats and other felines are essential reservoirs of the parasite.

Dogs and Echinococcosis

Echinococcosis is a severe zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the larval stage of tapeworms. Dogs, wolves, and foxes serve as definitive hosts, and various animals, including humans, serve as intermediate hosts.

Dogs and Trichinellosis

Trichinellosis is a parasitic zoonotic disease caused by Trichinella spiralis. It affects humans and a wide range of mammals, with pigs being the main reservoir. Dogs can become infected by consuming infected animal carcasses or feces.

Dogs and Leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by various species of Leishmania parasites, affecting humans and animals. It is transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies. Dogs are a significant reservoir of the disease.

Gambian Rats (Pouched Rats) and Monkeypox

In 2003, Gambian rats (pouched rats) from Africa entered the pet market in the United States, leading to a monkeypox outbreak in the Midwest. Nearly a hundred adults and children were infected.

Groundhogs, once common wild rodents on plains, have gradually emerged as "stars" in the American pet market since the 1990s. About 20,000 are captured annually for pet sales, fetching prices as high as $200 each and even exported to Japan. "Monkeypox," a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, typically spreads among non-human primates. Research has found that groundhogs can carry the monkeypox virus, leading to human infections and even fatalities. Dog bites from infected groundhogs can also transmit the virus to humans, causing illness. While monkeypox primarily spreads among animals, under special circumstances, it can also transmit among human populations.

Parrot and Psittacosis

As for "Psittacosis" or "Parrot Fever," it is an avian zoonotic infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci, affecting over 150 bird species. Humans or other animals (pets) can contract it by inhaling dust containing feathers or feces from infected birds or through bites. Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, and in severe cases, atypical pneumonia and other pathological changes.

The World Health Organization has pointed out that there is currently no evidence to prove that cats, dogs, or other pets can be infected with the novel coronavirus. However, washing hands with soap and water after contact with pets is always beneficial, significantly reducing the spread of other common bacteria between pets and humans, such as E. coli and Salmonella.

How to Prevent Pet-Associated Diseases

1. Regular Pet Check-ups: Ensure routine veterinary examinations for pets.
2. Scheduled Vaccinations: Stay updated with pet vaccinations according to veterinary recommendations.
3. Prompt Treatment of Injuries and Illness: Address any injuries or illnesses promptly to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
4. Maintain Environmental Hygiene: Regularly clean up animal waste to maintain a clean environment.
5. Disinfect Pet Living Spaces: Periodically disinfect pet living areas to minimize the risk of disease transmission.

With the thriving pet industry today, it is crucial for pet owners to scientifically raise their pets and actively prevent pet diseases and zoonotic diseases to ensure the health of both pets and humans.

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