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It is not uncommon for animal lovers to have a home that has both cats and dogs. Unfortunately, this cohabitation can sometimes lead to spreading of diseases or infections between both animals.
Misconceptions
Many diseases are species-specific, meaning they cannot pass between dogs and cats. For example, both dogs and cats can have distemper, but different strains of the distemper virus are species-specific and cannot be spread to other species.
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites such as heartworm, hookworm, tapeworm and whipworm can be passed between dogs and cats through contact with contaminated feces, urine or food.
External Parasites
External parasites, such as fleas, ticks and lice, can also be passed between dogs and cats. These parasites, especially fleas or ticks, can also carry various additional diseases such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Mange
Some forms of mange, such as demodectic mange, can be spread between cats and dogs. However, other forms of mange are species-specific.
Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection that is highly contagious and can be spread between dogs and cats. It requires immediate veterinary treatment to prevent additional spreading between household pets and their owners.
Source:
Dr. Farnham's: Parasites in Dogs and Cats
Pet Education: Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper) in Cats and Kittens
Pet Education: Distemper in Puppies and Dogs
More Information:
Pet Place: Tick Infestion and Control in Cats
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