How do mice infect cats? - briefly
Cats become infected when a mouse bites or scratches, transmitting bacteria, parasites, or viruses present in the rodent’s saliva or tissues. Eating a contaminated mouse can also convey agents such as Toxoplasma gondii.
How do mice infect cats? - in detail
Rodents can serve as reservoirs for several pathogens that affect felines. When a cat captures and consumes an infected mouse, it can acquire disease through the gastrointestinal tract. Common agents transmitted this way include:
- Toxoplasma gondii cysts present in mouse muscle tissue; ingestion leads to systemic infection, with potential ocular and neurological manifestations.
- Salmonella spp. bacteria colonizing the intestinal tract; ingestion may cause gastroenteritis, fever, and dehydration.
- Bartonella henselae residing in rodent blood; after ingestion, the bacterium can enter the cat’s bloodstream, producing fever, lymphadenopathy, and, in rare cases, endocarditis.
- Hantavirus particles found in rodent saliva and urine; accidental ingestion or mucosal exposure may result in hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, though feline cases are infrequent.
Transmission can also occur indirectly. Fleas that infest mice may bite cats, transferring flea‑borne agents such as Rickettsia felis or Yersinia pestis. Additionally, mouse carcasses contaminated with urine or feces can expose cats to pathogens via mucosal contact.
Clinical signs vary with the agent. Gastrointestinal upset, weight loss, and lethargy are typical for bacterial infections. Neurological signs, including ataxia or seizures, may indicate toxoplasmosis. Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and ocular inflammation suggest bartonellosis. Laboratory diagnosis relies on serology, PCR, or culture of appropriate samples.
Preventive measures focus on limiting rodent access to indoor environments, using rodent control programs, and ensuring cats are fed commercial diets rather than raw prey. Regular veterinary examinations, vaccination where available, and prompt treatment of flea infestations reduce the risk of infection from rodent vectors.