Can dog fungus spread to humans

Identifying and Treating Fungal Infections in Dogs

By Reyna Gobel

Bacteria and viruses are what typically spring to mind hen pet parents think infection, but fungi can also be to blame. While not as common as bacterial or viral infections, fungal infections can be just as serious. Dogs can contract fungal infections from other animals, from the environment, or as a result of the overgrowth of fungi that are naturally present on their own bodies. Every pet is potentially at risk for contracting a fungal infection, and an accurate diagnosis is necessary before appropriate treatment can begin. Read on to learn more about fungal infections in dogs.

Fungal Skin Infections

When your dog starts scratching himself more than is normal, it can be hard to tell whether its because of an allergy, flea bites, infection, or something else. Excessive itching can be quite worrisome, especially if your dog develops bald spots or damages his own skin as a result.

One telltale sign of fleas is the presence of flea dirt (small black clumps of flea feces) on your dogs skin and fur. If you see flea dirt or actual fleas, treat him right away. But if fleas or ticks arent to blame, dont self-diagnose or rely on Dr. Google, warns Dr. John DaJong, a veterinarian at Newton Animal Hospital in Massachusetts. After performing a complete physical exam, your veterinarian can conduct specific tests to help diagnose the problem and identify whether a fungal infection is to blame.

Lets look at two common types of fungal infections that affect the skin of dogs and how to treat them.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a common fungal infection in pets. It can affect a dogs skin, fur, and also the nails. Common symptoms include hair loss, itching, flaky or crusty skin, and misshapen or brittle nails. While you should treat any infection as soon as possible, time is of the essence with ringworm because it can easily spread to other household animals and humans, says Dr. Andrew Rosenberg, a veterinarian at Riverdale Veterinary Dermatology clinic in Riverdale, New Jersey.

To diagnose ringworm, your veterinarian will perform a fungal culture of hair or skin cells or a microscopic examination of a hair sample. Depending on the severity of the infection, ringworm may be treated with medicated baths and dips and/or oral antifungal medications. Vacuuming and disinfecting the house will also help lessen the chances that ringworm will spread between pets and people.

Yeast Infection

Overgrowth of yeast on a dogs body can lead to irritating yeast infections, commonly affecting the skin, paws, and ears. These infections can be extremely uncomfortable for dogs, says Rosenberg. Theyre generally secondary to allergies or other conditions that disrupt the skins ability to control the yeast that normally live there.

If I suspect a dog might have a yeast infection, I take an impression smear of the area that might be infected and look at it under a microscope, Rosenberg says. When the slide is stained, the yeast look like little purple peanuts.

Treatment normally involves an antiseptic or antifungal drug applied to the skin. Oral medications may be necessary in severe cases. Unlike ringworm, yeast infections arent contagious to other pets or people. To prevent yeast infections from recurring, its important to treat any underlying conditions as recommended by your veterinarian.

If your pet is constantly itching and scratching, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Unfortunately, not all conditions can be solved with one visit. Sometimes it could take several visits to pinpoint the cause of your dogs itching or require a visit to a veterinary dermatologist, Rosenberg says.

Systemic Fungal Infections

Fungal infections on the surface of the body are bad enough, but those that invade deeper structures can have even more serious consequences. Lets look at several common types of systemic fungal infections in dogs and how to treat them.

Blastomycosis

Blastomycosis is most commonly diagnosed in dogs that have spent time in Mississippi, Ohio, Missouri, Tennessee, the St. Lawrence River valley, the mid-Atlantic, and around the Great Lakes because the types of soil that are typically found in these areas support the growth of the fungus. Dogs that spend time sniffing around in the dirt are at risk for inhaling fungal spores, which can lead to a lung infection, says Dr. Jennifer Coates, veterinarian and author of Dictionary of Veterinary Terms, Vet-Speak Deciphered for the Non-Veterinarian. From there, the organism can travel almost anywhere in the body. According to Coates, common symptoms include poor appetite, weight loss, coughing, difficulty breathing, limping, eye problems, skin lesions (particularly around the toenails), enlarged lymph nodes, and fever. If the disease is caught early enough, treatment with an oral anti-fungal medication can be curative.

Cryptococcosis

While cats are more commonly infected with the fungus Cryptococcus, Coates says dogs tend to develop a more severe form of the disease. The fungus is present in soils world-wide but may be especially prevalent in areas where pigeons and other birds congregate. As is the case with blastomycosis, dogs typically inhale the Cryptococcus fungus, leading to a lung infection. It can then spread almost anywhere in the body, which can cause symptoms ranging from lethargy, coughing, nasal discharge, eye problems, skin lesions, and even seizures and other neurologic abnormalities. Coates warns that treating cryptococosis can be difficult. Oral antifungal medications may need to be given for a year or more and some dogs will still succumb to the disease.

Coccidioidomycosis

Dogs can get coccidioidomycosis (also known as Valley Fever) from inhaling dust or dirt that contains coccidioides fungal spores,says Dr. Carol Hillhouse, a veterinarian in Panhandle, Texas. It tends to grow in desert areas with little rain and sandy soil, such as California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, she says. Strong winds, earthquakes, construction areas, and even crop harvesting can stir up the spores into the air.

Once the spores are inhaled, the fungus may simply cause a chronic cough, Hillhouse says. In other cases, especially if immunosuppressed, the dog may develop pneumonia or the fungus can spread to other areas in the body, such as bone or the eyes, she says. It can be difficult to diagnose, and usually requires radiographs, blood, and cell testing. Valley fever requires long-term treatment with oral antifungal medications, but the prognosis is pretty good if caught early, she says.

Histoplasmosis

Another soil-borne fungus, Histoplasma, prefers the temperate climates of Ohio, Mississippi, and Missouri River Valleys, Hillhouse says. This fungus grows best in nitrogen-rich soil, such as bird and bat excrement, and is usually acquired by inhalation of the organism from the environment.Infected dogs can show weight loss, fever, cough, eye inflammation, vomiting, and diarrhea, she says. Often, a combination of blood and urine tests, as well as radiographs, are used to make the diagnosis. Sometimes biopsies are required as well. Treatment involves long-term fungal medication, but prevention is best by restricting access to soil that is contaminated with bird or bat droppings.

Aspergillosis

Infections with Aspergillusfungus are usually limited to a dogs nasal passages. Aspergillosis can affect dogs residing in almost any part of the country since the fungus is present in most soils. Treatment typically involves anesthetizing the pet and infusing his nasal passages with a liquid anti-fungal medication. Most dogs will recover if treated appropriately, although a second treatment may be necessary in some cases.

Preventing Fungal Infections in Dogs

Fungal infections in dogs range from localized annoyances to potentially fatal systemic diseases. Prevention is not always possible, but common sense measures can help. If you live in an area where a certain type of fungal infection is endemic, avoid high risk environments. Pets with ringworm should be isolated to limit the spread of the disease to people or other animals. Finally, appropriately manage any underlying health problems that increase your dogs risk for developing a fungal infection.

5 Skin Conditions Dogs Can Pass On To Humans

If you are like most dog parents, then you frequently give your dog hugs and snuggle up to them.

You might even allow your dog to sleep in the same bed as you.

Did you know there are some pretty serious skin problems that you can get from your dog?

Here are 5 dog skin conditions (plus one painful disease) that dogs can pass onto humans

How Dog Skin Conditions Transfer To Humans

Dogs typically get these skin conditions while playing outside, in dog parks, or while roaming the neighborhood.

However, believe it or not, your dog can actually pass on a skin condition to you without having the skin condition himself!

For example, one way that a dog can pass on a skin condition is by being petted. If someone pets your dog and they have a skin condition, if your dog rubs on you or you pet him, then you have a good chance of getting the skin condition yourself.

Who knew???

Like people, all animals carry germs But pets also carry certain bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi that can cause illness if transmitted to humans. Humans get these animal-borne diseases when theyre bitten or scratched or have contact with an animals waste, saliva, or dander. Source

5 Skin Conditions Dogs Can Pass Onto Humans

#1 Im sure youve heard of people getting Staph Infections, like MRSA, while in the hospital. Did you know that you can get a Staph Infection from your dog? Some Staph Infections cannot be treated with common antibiotics. Dogs pick up the bacteria for a Staph Infection from a person. Then, if your dog bites another person (or, if his saliva simply enters through a cut on the persons hand or some other open wound), the Staph Infection gets passed on to that person as well.

#2 Another skin condition that you can get from your dog is Scabies. Scabies is caused by a mite that is known to hang around kennels and pet shops. Scabies is a red bumpy rash with white flakes and the mites (known as Sarcoptic Mites and Mange) appear to be moving under the skin. Ive had experience with Scabies. When Iwas around 8, my entire family got infected with Scabies. It itches really bad. Our family doctor treated it with a prescribed lotion. A friend of mine also got Scabies from a dog that she rescued.

Here are 3 other dog skin conditions that can be passed on to humans:

#3 Ringworm This is actually a fungus, not an actual worm. (Its highly contagious to humans and other pets.)

#4 Hookworm This can cause abdominal pain, anemia, and diarrhea. (Heres more about how hookworms can infect humans.)

#5 Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever Your dog gets this from a tick bite. (My same friends dog also got Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, in addition to the Scabies.)

What About Lyme Disease?

While not a skin problem, another serious medical condition that you can get from your dog is Lyme Disease.

Ifa tick that has infected your dog getsonto your own body, then you would be exposed to Lyme Disease as well. Lyme Disease can be painful and debilitating for both humans and dogs.

Heres how to tell if your dog has Lyme Disease from a tick bite.

photo by Mike Baird

I have 2 Miniature Pinschers. My husband and I consider them our 4-legged kids.

Can Cat Fungus Spread to Humans?

Cats are loving, cuddly companions that bring joy to our lives. However, they can also bring certain health issues, including fungal infections that can be transmitted to humans. In this article, well explore the topic of cat fungus and its potential spread to humans.

Understanding Cat Fungus

What is Cat Fungus?

Cat fungus, also known as feline dermatophytosis, is a type of fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails of cats. Its caused by a group of fungi known as dermatophytes, which can live on the skin of infected cats and spread to other cats and even humans.

When a cat is infected with cat fungus, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Red, scaly patches on the skin
• Bald spots
• Crusty or raised lesions
• Itching and scratching
• Broken or brittle nails

These symptoms can be uncomfortable for your cat and can lead to further complications if left untreated. Its important to take your cat to the vet if you suspect they may have cat fungus.

Common Types of Fungal Infections in Cats

There are four primary types of dermatophytes that can cause feline dermatophytosis:

• Microsporum canis
• Microsporum gypseum
• Trichophyton mentagrophytes
• Trichophyton verrucosum

The most common type of dermatophyte in cats is M. canis, which is highly contagious and can spread to humans. This type of fungus can be easily transmitted between cats through direct contact or through contact with contaminated objects, such as bedding or grooming tools.

While M. canis is the most common type of dermatophyte, any of the four types can cause feline dermatophytosis. Its important to note that not all cats will show symptoms of infection, even if they are carriers of the fungus. This is why its important to regularly check your cat for any signs of infection and to take them to the vet for regular check-ups.

If you suspect that your cat has cat fungus, its important to take them to the vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your vet may recommend antifungal medication or topical treatments to help clear up the infection and prevent it from spreading to other cats or humans.

How Cat Fungus Spreads

Direct Contact with Infected Cats

The primary way that cat fungus spreads is through direct contact with infected cats. This can happen when cats groom each other, play together, or sleep in close proximity. It is important to note that not all cats who come into contact with the fungus will develop an infection. The risk of infection may be higher for cats with weakened immune systems, such as those with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia virus (FeLV).

When a cat is infected with the fungus, it can take several weeks for symptoms to appear. These symptoms may include hair loss, scaly skin, and crusty lesions. If you suspect that your cat may have a fungal infection, it is important to take them to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Humans can also get infected by petting or grooming an infected cat. While rare, human infections can occur and may cause skin irritation or a rash. If you have been in contact with an infected cat and develop symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.

Indirect Contact through Contaminated Objects

In rare cases, cat fungus can spread through indirect contact with contaminated objects. This can happen when a human touches an object that has been in contact with an infected cat, such as bedding, toys, or food bowls. However, this mode of transmission is much less common than direct contact.

To reduce the risk of indirect transmission, it is important to regularly clean and disinfect objects that come into contact with cats. This includes litter boxes, food and water bowls, and bedding.

Environmental Factors Contributing to Fungal Growth

Fungal infections can spread more easily in warm, humid environments, such as those commonly found in animal shelters. Poor hygiene and overcrowding in shelters can also contribute to the spread of cat fungus.

If you are considering adopting a cat from a shelter, it is important to ask about their infection control practices. A reputable shelter will have protocols in place to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

Additionally, if you have multiple cats in your home, it is important to provide them with plenty of space and resources to reduce the risk of overcrowding and stress. Stress can weaken a cats immune system and make them more susceptible to infections.

Overall, while cat fungus can be a serious and uncomfortable condition for cats and humans alike, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of transmission and infection. By being aware of the potential modes of transmission and taking preventative measures, you can help keep your furry friends (and yourself) healthy and happy.

Fungal Infections that Can Affect Humans

Fungal infections are a common occurrence in humans, and they can be caused by a variety of different fungi. Some of the most common fungal infections that affect humans are ringworm, aspergillosis, and cryptococcosis.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails of humans. Its caused by the same dermatophytes that cause cat fungus, and can be transmitted from infected cats to humans through direct contact or indirect contact with contaminated objects.

Ringworm can manifest in a number of ways, depending on the location of the infection. When it affects the skin, it typically appears as a red, circular rash with raised edges. When it affects the nails, it can cause them to become thick and discolored. And when it affects the scalp, it can cause hair loss and scaly patches.

Fortunately, ringworm is easily treatable with antifungal medications. In addition to medication, its important to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of the infection. This includes washing your hands frequently, avoiding sharing personal items like towels and combs, and keeping your living spaces clean.

Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that primarily affects the lungs of humans. Its caused by the fungus Aspergillus, which can be found in the environment. While its possible for humans to get aspergillosis from infected cats, this mode of transmission is rare.

Aspergillosis can manifest in a variety of ways, depending on the type of infection. Invasive aspergillosis is a serious condition that can affect multiple organs and is typically seen in people with weakened immune systems. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis is a less severe form of the infection that primarily affects the lungs and is typically seen in people with asthma or cystic fibrosis.

Treatment for aspergillosis typically involves antifungal medications, as well as measures to support the immune system. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue.

Cryptococcosis

Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection that can affect the lungs, skin, and central nervous system of humans. Its caused by the fungus Cryptococcus, which is commonly found in the environment. People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of getting cryptococcosis from infected cats.

Cryptococcosis can manifest in a variety of ways, depending on the location of the infection. When it affects the lungs, it can cause symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. When it affects the skin, it can cause lesions that are typically painless. And when it affects the central nervous system, it can cause symptoms like headache, fever, and confusion.

Treatment for cryptococcosis typically involves antifungal medications, as well as measures to support the immune system. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to manage symptoms and monitor for complications.

In conclusion, fungal infections can be a serious health concern for humans, and its important to take steps to prevent and treat them. By practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with infected animals, and seeking prompt medical attention when necessary, you can reduce your risk of developing a fungal infection and ensure that you receive the care you need to recover.

Symptoms of Fungal Infections in Humans

Fungal infections can affect various parts of the human body, and the symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection and the affected area. Here are some of the most common symptoms of fungal infections in humans:

Skin and Nail Changes

One of the primary symptoms of fungal infections in humans is skin and nail changes. This can include red, itchy, and scaly patches of skin, as well as nail discoloration and thickening. Fungal infections of the skin are also known as dermatophytosis or tinea. These infections can affect various parts of the body, such as the feet (athletes foot), groin (jock itch), scalp (tinea capitis), and body (tinea corporis). Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, can cause the nails to become thick, discolored, and brittle.

Respiratory Issues

In some cases, fungal infections can also cause respiratory issues in humans, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. This is more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or diabetes. Fungal infections of the lungs are known as aspergillosis, and they can be life-threatening in severe cases. Aspergillosis can cause symptoms such as chest pain, fever, and coughing up blood.

Neurological Symptoms

In rare cases, fungal infections can affect the central nervous system of humans, causing symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and confusion. Fungal meningitis is a serious condition that can be caused by various types of fungi, such as Cryptococcus and Aspergillus. This condition can cause inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, leading to symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light.

If you suspect that you have a fungal infection, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor can diagnose the infection and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include antifungal medications, creams, or ointments.

Conclusion

Cat fungus can spread to humans through direct contact with infected cats, as well as through contaminated objects and environmental factors. While some types of fungal infections can be serious for humans, they are generally treatable with antifungal medications. If you suspect that you or your cat has a fungal infection, its important to seek medical care to prevent the spread of the infection and ensure timely treatment.