Stray animals have often not been vaccinated, and some infectious diseases spread easily to other pets. Knowing the basics helps you get a rescued animal the right care quickly and protect the animals already in your home. Only a veterinarian can diagnose these illnesses.
Common diseases in cats
Feline panleukopenia (feline distemper). A highly contagious and often fatal virus, especially in kittens. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy and refusing food. The virus survives in the environment for a long time and is resistant to many common disinfectants. Vaccination is very effective.
Cat flu (upper respiratory infections). Usually caused by feline herpesvirus and calicivirus. Signs include sneezing, runny eyes and nose, mouth ulcers and loss of appetite. Very common in strays and shelters; kittens can become seriously ill if they stop eating.
FIV and FeLV. Feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus weaken the immune system. They spread mainly through deep bite wounds (FIV) or close contact such as grooming and shared bowls (FeLV). A veterinarian can test for both.
Parasites and ringworm. Fleas, ear mites, intestinal worms and ringworm, a fungal skin infection that can also spread to people.
Common diseases in dogs
Canine parvovirus. A highly contagious virus that causes severe vomiting and often bloody diarrhea, especially in puppies. It can be fatal without intensive treatment, and it persists in the environment. Vaccination is very effective.
Canine distemper. A serious viral disease that can affect the respiratory, digestive and nervous systems. Signs include eye and nose discharge, coughing, fever and, later, twitching or seizures.
Kennel cough. A contagious respiratory infection causing a honking cough. Usually mild, but more serious in puppies and older dogs.
Parasites and skin disease. Fleas, ticks, worms and mange mites are common in strays.
Diseases that can affect people
Some infections can spread from animals to people, including ringworm, some parasites and, in regions where it occurs, rabies. Wash your hands after handling any stray, and see a doctor promptly after any bite or scratch that breaks the skin. See how to approach a stray safely.
Quarantine: protect the pets you already have
- Keep the new animal in a separate room with its own bowls, litter tray, bedding and toys, ideally for at least two weeks and until a vet has checked it.
- Wash your hands and change clothes or wear an overall after caring for it, and care for your own pets first.
- Make sure your own pets’ vaccinations are up to date.
- Clean with a disinfectant known to work against tough viruses such as parvovirus and panleukopenia; ask your vet for a suitable product and follow its contact time.
- See a veterinarian soon for a health check, parasite treatment and advice on testing and vaccinations.
When to go to a vet urgently
Repeated vomiting or diarrhea (especially with blood), refusing food, difficulty breathing, seizures, severe lethargy, or any illness in a young kitten or puppy.
This guide is general information and not a substitute for veterinary advice.