Cat and dog bites can cause serious infections, including septic shock, meningitis, and endocarditis, an infection of the valves in the heart. In the July 2009 issue of The Lancet Infectious Diseases, physicians from the University of South Florida report on an emerging syndrome of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections that are shared between pets and their owners.

A particular strain of MRSA involving the USA300 clone has been most commonly implicated in human to pet transmission of infection. The current evidence suggests that domestic animals, including cats, dogs, and horses, acquire MSA infection from their human owners and are able to transmit the bacteria back to humans, as well, causing a cycle of MRSA transmission between pets and their human acquaintances.

Pet owners may not be aware that there is a potential for transmission of life-threatening bacteria and other pathogens from their cats and dogs. Further studies are needed to evaluate pet-associated infections, such as MRSA. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating their patients about preventing and recognizing the complications of pet-related infections.

Source:

The Lancet Infectious Diseases. 9(7):439-447, July 2009.