The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) today released updated Feline Zoonoses Guidelines to the veterinary community. The AAFP aims to provide accurate information about feline zoonotic diseases to owners, physicians, and veterinarians to allow logical decisions to be made concerning cat ownership. There are many benefits of having pet cats; however, education is key to prevention of these common diseases, which are transmittable between animals and humans. With these Guidelines, the AAFP also aims to address the misinformation that exists about cats and disease transmission. 

The AAFP created a panel comprised of veterinarians and physicians who worked together to make these Guidelines.

“These guidelines are a great example of veterinarians and physicians working together in One Health to provide accurate information about safe cat ownership," said Michael R. Lappin, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, Chair, Zoonoses Guidelines and the WSAVA One Health Committee.

The Zoonoses Guidelines focus on the enteric zoonoses; scratch, bite or exudate exposure zoonoses; ocular and respiratory zoonoses, urogenital tract zoonoses, vector-borne zoonoses, and lessening the risk of zoonotic transfer of disease from cats. Additionally, the Guidelines are accompanied by a cat owner client brochure entitled, "What can I catch from my cat." The brochure discusses how zoonotic organisms are spread, provides examples of potential cat-associated zoonoses, and discusses how to decrease your risk.

"These Guidelines provide recommendations concerning the prevention of feline zoonoses, as well as the latest research and information on these diseases. Cats are wonderful pets, and with education, we can improve the health and welfare of cats as well as decrease any potential risks to their humans. This updated resource is another significant milestone in that direction," said Heather O'Steen, CEO of the AAFP.

To access the Feline Zoonoses Guidelines, visit catvets.com/zoonoses. Cat Caregivers can learn more about feline zoonoses at catfriendly.com/zoonoses.