Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was wondering if my cat is in any danger from salmonella or anything else as a result of owning an iguana? I did a quick search and it looks like a cat's digestive tract is very acidic as well as short and are not really affected. I just want to be sure.

Thanks,
Mike

I have 3 iggys (1 free roamer)and 2 cats. They get interaction between them and I don't think they can catch anything from them. Maybe if they get in a fight and the cat gets cut, but other than that I don't think so. I'm not 100% sure though. Is the cat an indoor cat?

Yes, I have 2 indoor cats.

Thanks,
Mike

I'm a vet tech and yes cats can catch salmonella, giardia, hookworms, roundworms, pinworms, and mites from your ig if he has them and vice-versa. That's why it's so important to have physical exams and fecal tests done yearly on all your pets. It doesn't matter if the cat is indoors or not.
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Greenwicche
"Whatever you want to do, just do it. Don't worry about making a fool of yourself. Making a fool of yourself is absolutely essential." Gloria Steinem

Thanks!

Is salmonella more dangerous to people than cats? I personally am more worried about the cats than I am myself. I know when I am sick, the cats cannot really notify me.

I am planning on taking my ig to the vet this Saturday. Should I bring a fecal sample? Should I just take him in a cat carrire?

Thanks,
Mike

Salmonella can be dangerous to humans and animals especially if they're system is already weak from a medical condition or disease. In cats, salmonella can live in the gut for some time before they become symptomatic.
Take a fresh (less than 24 hrs old) fecal sample with you to the vet. If need be keep it in the fridge. Cat carriers are perfect for transporting igs.
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Greenwicche
"Whatever you want to do, just do it. Don't worry about making a fool of yourself. Making a fool of yourself is absolutely essential." Gloria Steinem