Health experts have cautioned Nigerians on the dangers of keeping pets without proper hygiene and veterinary care, warning that animals such as dogs and cats can transmit harmful parasites capable of causing severe illnesses in humans.
According to them, parasites such as worms, mites, ticks, and microscopic organisms often live inside or on pets, even when the animals appear healthy. These parasites can spread through direct contact, droppings, contaminated soil, food, or water. In humans, the infections can lead to symptoms ranging from skin rashes and diarrhoea to life-threatening complications such as liver cysts and lung infections.
Pets as Silent Carriers
Speaking exclusively to Fresh Facts, Professor Tanimola Akande, a Public Health expert at the University of Ilorin, explained that pets serve as carriers of zoonotic infections—diseases transmitted from animals to humans.
“Even healthy-looking pets can harbour parasites without showing signs of infection.” – Prof. Akande
He highlighted some of the dangerous parasites, including Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, which are transmitted through eggs shed by dogs and cats. Others include Toxoplasma gondii, spread through cat faeces, and scabies mites, which can pass to humans through close skin contact.
“These parasites can cause severe illnesses. For example, Giardia parasites may result in diarrhoea and abdominal pain, hookworm larvae can penetrate human skin, and echinococcus parasites transmitted through dog faeces can lead to hydatid disease—painful cysts in the liver or lungs,” he warned.
How Pets Get Infected
Professor Kehinde Adesokan, a Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine expert at the University of Ibadan, also stressed that Nigeria’s growing pet population requires better veterinary oversight.
“When we interact with infected cats or dogs, we could be exposed.” – Prof. Adesokan
He explained that parasites in pets are either external, like ticks that cling to their skin, or internal, such as worms that live in their digestive system or blood.
“Dogs and cats can easily get infected when they come into contact with contaminated soil, food, or water. Once infected, these parasites can be passed on to humans,” he said.
Adesokan warned that infections can occur through everyday interactions. “A cat licking your hands or face, handling contaminated pet bedding, or even contact with soil where animal droppings are deposited can expose humans to parasites. Children are especially vulnerable because they often play freely with pets.”
Common Parasites and Warning Signs
Both experts identified worms such as hookworms and roundworms as among the most common parasites transmissible from pets to humans.
Prof. Adesokan explained:
“An infected animal may lose appetite, become inactive, or appear generally dull. But a healthy-looking pet can still be a carrier.”
This makes detection difficult and highlights the importance of preventive care.
Protecting Families from Infections
Both experts agreed that personal hygiene and regular veterinary care are critical in preventing parasite transmission.
“Washing hands with soap after handling pets or cleaning their kennels is crucial.” – Prof. Adesokan
Pet owners were advised to limit unguarded play, especially for children, and ensure that animals undergo routine veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and deworming.
Prof. Akande added that raising public awareness is essential.
“Regular veterinary visits and strict hygiene practices will go a long way in protecting households from avoidable health complications.”
Final Word
As pets increasingly become part of Nigerian households, experts insist their health and hygiene must not be neglected. By prioritising veterinary care, responsible handling, and cleanliness, families can continue to enjoy the companionship of pets while staying safe from dangerous infections.
