Can Cat Hookworms Infect Humans? A Quick Guide
01. Types of Hookworms
There are two common types of hookworms that can infect cats: Ancylostoma and Uncinaria. These species include several subspecies, such as:
A. ceylanicum This subspecies affects cats, dogs, hamsters, and humans, and is prevalent in Asia and Australia.
A. braziliense It primarily infects cats and dogs, with occasional human infections, and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas and Asia.
A. tubaeforme Exclusive to cats, this subspecies is widespread across the globe.
U. stenocephala This subspecies infects cats, dogs, foxes, and humans, and is common in cold and temperate climates, including the UK.
02. Modes of Transmission
Hookworm eggs are deposited in the environment through feces. Within 2 to 5 days, depending on environmental conditions, these eggs hatch into infective larvae, making them capable of transmitting the infection to cats.
Skint penetration: In environments with larvae, if a cat passes through, the larvae can enter the cat's body through the skin, migrate to the intestines, and grow there.
Ingestion: Cats can become infected through grooming, drinking contaminated water, eating contaminated food, and other similar situations.
Intrauterine: Infected female dogs can pass larvae to their kittens through the uterus. In cats, this is not yet well understood.
Milk: This is a common method of transmission in dogs with hookworms. In cats, this is also not well understood.
Once a cat is infected with larvae, they migrate to the small intestine, attach to the walls, and mature. Adult hookworms then produce a large number of eggs, which are excreted in the feces. These eggs can remain active in the environment for a long time.
03. Symptoms of Infection
The severity of hookworm infection depends on the extent of the infection and the type of hookworm. Some cats may not show any symptoms.
Black, tarry stools
Pale gums due to anemia
Diarrhea
Loss of coat luster
Skin irritation (especially on the paws)
