Cat

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Cat (Medicine)

Cat (pronounced: /kæt/) is a small carnivorous mammal that is often kept as a pet. In the medical field, cats are often used in research and can also be a source of certain diseases that can affect humans, known as zoonoses.

Etymology

The English word 'cat' is derived from the Old English 'catt', which is thought to be from the Late Latin 'cattus'.

Medical Significance

Cats can carry and transmit several diseases to humans, including Toxoplasmosis, Rabies, and Cat Scratch Disease. They are also a common source of allergens, which can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which can be found in cat feces. It can cause flu-like symptoms and can be dangerous for pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.

Rabies

Rabies is a deadly virus that can be transmitted to humans through a bite from an infected animal, including cats. Vaccination of cats is an important measure to prevent the spread of this disease.

Cat Scratch Disease

Cat Scratch Disease is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans through a scratch or bite from an infected cat. It can cause fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.

Allergies

Cats are a common source of allergens, including dander, saliva, and urine. These can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including sneezing, itching, and asthma.

Related Terms

  • Feline Medicine: The branch of veterinary medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in cats.
  • Zoonotic diseases: Diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
  • Veterinary Medicine: The branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease, disorder and injury in animals.

External links

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