Living with pets brings numerous benefits to physical and mental health, such as reducing stress and promoting a more active routine. However, it is essential to be aware of the risks associated with contact with dog and cat urine and feces, which can affect human health.
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Vanessa Lowe Silva Santana, a professor at the Veterinary Medicine course at Faculdade Anhanguera, points out that pet urine and feces can be vehicles for various diseases. Among bacterial infections, leptospirosis, caused by the bacteria Leptospira, present in the urine of infected animals, can be contracted through contact with contaminated soil or water. Symptoms of leptospirosis include high fever, headaches, muscle pain, and, in severe cases, kidney and liver complications.
Another concern is gastrointestinal infections, such as salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis, transmitted through contact with contaminated feces. These infections result in diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, requiring appropriate attention and treatment.
In addition, the veterinarian explains that pet urine and feces can also transmit diseases caused by parasites, such as cutaneous larva migrans (Ancylostoma). “This parasite is transmitted through contact with contaminated feces, usually in sandy soil areas, and can penetrate the skin, causing painful and irritating lesions on the feet,” emphasizes Vanessa.
Parasites represent a significant risk. According to the professor, toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii present in cat feces, can be severe for pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems. However, this contamination mainly occurs through poorly sanitized food that had contact with fresh cat feces containing the parasite. Apparent symptoms are fever, muscle pain, and, in more severe cases, neurological damage. “And giardiasis, caused by the protozoan Giardia lamblia found in animal feces, manifests as diarrhea, cramps, and nausea, requiring strict hygiene measures to prevent its spread.”
To minimize these risks, it is essential to adopt strict hygiene practices and take care of pet health. “Regular cleaning of areas where animals relieve themselves is crucial. Use appropriate disinfectants, avoiding toxic products for pets, and wash your hands with soap and water after handling feces or urine. Maintaining pet health is also crucial: take them for regular check-ups, keep vaccinations up to date, and promptly treat any signs of illness. Use antiparasitics regularly to prevent worm and other parasite infestations,” advises the veterinarian.
“Creating safe environments is also important. Establish a specific place for the pet’s physiological needs, preferably away from living and dining areas, and dispose of feces in appropriate plastic bags, discarding them in closed trash cans,” concludes the professor from the Veterinary Medicine course at Anhanguera.
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