What can a cat catch from a mouse? - briefly
A cat may acquire zoonotic pathogens such as hantavirus, salmonella, and gastrointestinal parasites when it kills a mouse. It can also pick up ectoparasites like fleas, ticks, or mites that the rodent carries.
What can a cat catch from a mouse? - in detail
A cat that hunts and consumes a mouse may acquire several biological agents and nutritional components.
Pathogens transmitted through ingestion include:
- Bacterial infections – Salmonella spp., Yersinia pestis (plague), Leptospira spp., and Streptococcus species can survive in rodent tissues and cause gastro‑intestinal or systemic illness in felines.
- Viral agents – Hantavirus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, and murine norovirus may be present in mouse organs and secretions, potentially leading to respiratory or neurological symptoms.
- Parasitic infestations – Tapeworms (Taenia taeniaeformis), roundworms (Toxocara cati), and protozoa such as Toxoplasma gondii can be transmitted when a cat eats infected rodent muscle or organs.
- External parasites – Fleas, mites, and ticks that infest a mouse may transfer to the cat’s fur during handling or consumption, resulting in secondary skin irritation or disease vectors.
Nutritional elements derived from the prey include:
- High‑quality protein providing essential amino acids for muscle development.
- Taurine, an amino sulfonic acid that cats cannot synthesize in sufficient quantities and must obtain from animal tissue.
- Vitamins A and D, stored in liver and fat, supporting vision, immune function, and calcium metabolism.
- Minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium, contributing to enzymatic processes and antioxidant defenses.
Potential toxic risks involve:
- Rodenticide residues – Anticoagulant or neurotoxic compounds used in pest control can remain in mouse tissue and cause bleeding disorders or neurological signs in the predator.
- Heavy metals – Lead or cadmium accumulated by the mouse may be transferred to the cat, leading to organ dysfunction over time.
Overall, ingestion of a mouse exposes a cat to a spectrum of infectious agents, beneficial nutrients, and possible toxins. Regular veterinary monitoring and preventive measures, such as parasite control and avoidance of rodenticide‑treated prey, reduce health hazards while preserving the natural dietary benefits of rodent consumption.