Sickness & pets

Question
Hi. I'm a 37 year old female and have always had some sort of pet in my life. I was wondering if a cat or dog or any animal can catch a cold, stomach virus, flu, etc, from a person? And can a person catch these from an animal? If so,how can this be prevented? I've noticed that recently, I've had the touch of the flu, and my cat was sleeping in my bed with me, and a few days later it seemed she had a cold. She was sneezing and coughing more often than usual. Any info you can give me, I'd appreciate.

Thanks,
Kate

Answer
Hi Kate,

Humans cannot catch colds or viruses from cats or dogs, so you don't have to worry about that.   Parasites can be ingested by humans from feces,  and ringworm can be gotten by touching an infected dog or cat, but this is rare in adults, it usually affects kids who play outside and accidentally ingest it by playing in the yard where a dog or cat has defecated.  I don't think you have to worry about your cat catching your cold or vice versa.

Now, about her sneezing........if it persists, you may need to have her checked, as cats do have upper respiratory problems that may need antibiotics to clear it up.  Watch her close, and if it continues, have her checked.

God Bless,
Becky