Pets are often considered part of the family, which means they share our homes, routines, and sometimes even our illnesses. While most pet owners know that animals can occasionally pass diseases to humans, fewer people realise that the opposite can also happen. This is known as reverse zoonosis – when a disease spreads from a human to an animal.
Although cases of reverse zoonotic disease transmission are relatively uncommon, they can still pose a risk to dogs, cats, and other household pets. Bacterial infections are the most common, but viral, fungal, and parasitic illnesses can also spread between humans and animals.
Understanding the signs, symptoms, and prevention methods can help keep both you and your pets healthy, especially if you regularly travel, use boarding facilities, or relocate internationally with your pet.
In this guide, we explore five diseases pets can potentially catch from humans, how they spread, and what you can do to reduce the risk.
What Is Reverse Zoonosis?
Reverse zoonosis, also called anthroponosis, refers to diseases that humans can transmit to animals. Because pets live in close contact with us, they can sometimes become exposed to bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi carried by people.
The risk is generally low, but it can increase if:
- A family member is ill
- Hygiene standards are poor
- Pets share bedding or food areas with humans
- Animals have weakened immune systems
- Pets are travelling or under stress
Maintaining good hygiene and monitoring your pet’s health are simple but important ways to prevent illness.
1. Salmonella
Can Humans Give Salmonella to Pets?
Yes. Salmonella is a bacterial infection commonly associated with food poisoning in humans, but it can also spread from humans to pets.
Dogs and cats infected with salmonella may experience:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
Humans can unknowingly pass salmonella bacteria onto pets through contaminated surfaces, poor hand hygiene, or infected food leftovers.
How to Prevent Salmonella in Pets
To reduce the risk of salmonella transmission:
- Wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom
- Clean food preparation surfaces regularly
- Avoid feeding pets contaminated leftovers
- Keep toilet lids closed to stop dogs drinking toilet water
- Disinfect shared household surfaces if someone is unwell
Pets that travel internationally may face increased exposure to unfamiliar bacteria, making good hygiene even more important before and after pet travel.
2. Mumps
Can Dogs Catch Mumps From Humans?
While uncommon, dogs can potentially become infected with mumps from humans. Thanks to widespread vaccination programmes, mumps cases are now rare in the UK, but outbreaks still occasionally occur.
Mumps symptoms in humans include:
- Fever
- Headaches
- Swollen glands
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
In dogs, symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Swelling around the neck or jaw
Because mumps is highly contagious among humans, it is best to limit close contact between infected family members and pets until recovery.
How to Protect Pets From Mumps
- Keep sick family members away from pets where possible
- Avoid sharing bedding with pets while ill
- Wash hands frequently
- Clean surfaces and food bowls regularly
Reducing close contact is particularly important before travelling with pets, as stress and changes in environment can weaken their immune systems.
3. MRSA
What Is MRSA?
MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a type of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection often associated with hospitals and healthcare environments.
Although MRSA infections in pets are considered rare, transmission between humans and animals is possible.
Pets carrying MRSA may develop:
- Skin infections
- Wounds that heal slowly
- Fever
- Discomfort or inflammation
Animals recovering from surgery or with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable.
Preventing MRSA Transmission Between Humans and Pets
To minimise the risk:
- Wash hands before and after handling pets
- Keep wounds covered
- Follow veterinary hygiene advice carefully
- Regularly clean pet bedding and food bowls
- Seek veterinary care if your pet develops unexplained skin problems
The British Small Animal Veterinary Association has also published guidance on reducing the spread of MRSA in pets and households.
4. Ringworm
Ringworm in Cats and Dogs
Despite the name, ringworm is not caused by worms. It is actually a fungal skin infection and is one of the most common diseases shared between pets and humans.
Ringworm spreads easily through:
- Direct skin contact
- Shared bedding
- Towels and clothing
- Brushes and grooming equipment
- Contaminated surfaces
Symptoms in pets often include:
- Circular bald patches
- Dry or flaky skin
- Redness or irritation
- Excessive scratching
Because fungal spores can survive on surfaces for long periods, ringworm can spread quickly in homes with multiple pets.
How to Prevent Ringworm
- Wash pet bedding frequently
- Avoid sharing towels between humans and pets
- Clean grooming equipment regularly
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery often
- Seek treatment quickly if symptoms appear
If you are travelling internationally with your pet, ensuring they are healthy before departure can help avoid complications with veterinary checks and border inspections.
5. Giardia
Can Pets Catch Giardia From Humans?
Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes a gastrointestinal infection called giardiasis. It spreads through contaminated water and contact with infected faeces.
Symptoms in pets may include:
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach cramps
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
Pets can become infected by drinking contaminated water from:
- Lakes
- Streams
- Wells
- Puddles
- Unclean water bowls
Humans can also accidentally pass giardia to pets through poor hygiene practices.
Preventing Giardia in Pets
- Wash hands thoroughly after using the bathroom
- Always provide clean drinking water
- Avoid stagnant water sources during walks
- Dispose of pet waste promptly
- Clean water bowls regularly
This is especially important during pet travel, where pets may encounter unfamiliar environments and shared outdoor spaces.
How to Reduce the Risk of Diseases Spreading Between Humans and Pets
Fortunately, most reverse zoonotic diseases are preventable with good hygiene and responsible pet care.
Simple Hygiene Tips for Pet Owners
- Wash hands regularly after handling pets
- Avoid letting pets lick your face
- Clean pet bedding and bowls frequently
- Keep vaccinations up to date
- Isolate sick household members where possible
- Visit a vet if your pet shows unusual symptoms
Good hygiene becomes even more important when travelling internationally with pets, as airports, hotels, kennels, and unfamiliar environments can increase stress and exposure to germs.
Travelling With Pets? Keep Their Health Protected
If you are planning to relocate or travel abroad with your dog or cat, maintaining their health is essential before, during, and after travel.
At PetAir UK, we help pet owners safely transport pets around the world with expert guidance on:
- Pet travel documentation
- Vaccination requirements
- Import and export regulations
- Airline-approved pet travel arrangements
- Health and safety preparation
- International pet relocation services
Our experienced team understands the importance of keeping pets healthy and stress-free throughout their journey.
Whether you are moving overseas, relocating with family, or arranging international pet transport, PetAir UK can help make the process safe, smooth, and worry-free.
Speak to PetAir UK About International Pet Travel
Looking for trusted pet travel specialists?
Get a quick quote with us today to learn more about our international pet transport and relocation services. Our team can help you prepare your pet for safe travel while ensuring all health, vaccination, and documentation requirements are met.
Safe pets. Safe travel. Peace of mind for every journey.
