Is the Catbus in My Neighbor Totoro Infected with Plagu

What is the Plague?

What is the Plague?

The plague, also known as the Black Death, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. It typically originates in rodents and other wild mammals, spreading to humans through the bites of infected fleas. The pathogen can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets or the bites of infected rodents or animals. With antibiotic treatment initiated within 24 hours of onset, the vast majority of patients can be cured and develop a "longlasting immunity" to the disease.

Do Chinchillas Have the Plague?

Chinchillas do not carry the plague. This is due to their extraordinary fur density, which is the highest among all existing animals. Their thick coat makes it nearly impossible for fleas or other parasites to infest them, let alone transmit the plague.

Moreover, although chinchillas belong to the Chinchillidae family, they are not classified as rodents. These adorable creatures are meticulous about their cleanliness, and with proper care from their owners, who should focus on their diet, hygiene, and avoid overbathing to maintain their fur's natural oils, chinchillas can live up to one and a half to two years.

It's crucial for owners to understand that chinchillas are not born with diseases; they can only become infected if they come into contact with the pathogen. Since domesticated chinchillas are usually kept in enclosures, they are at a low risk of contracting serious illnesses, much less the plague.

While chinchillas do not carry the rabies virus and are generally not susceptible to the plague, they can still harbor other pathogens. Therefore, it's important for owners to maintain a safe distance during interactions to prevent bites and to ensure the cleanliness of their pet's living environment to reduce the risk of disease.

For those who remain concerned about the presence of plague pathogens in their chinchillas, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian for a checkup. This can provide peace of mind for both the owner and the pet.