Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Feb 3: Regular deworming, timely vaccinations and proper hygiene practices are essential to maintaining a safe and healthy bond between pets and their owners, according to a senior veterinary doctor.
Addressing a press conference, Dr Altaf Geelani, Superintendent of a Veterinary Hospital in Srinagar, said that pet owners must adopt preventive health measures to ensure both animal welfare and human safety. “Maintaining regular hygiene, including routine grooming and dental care, helps prevent skin infections and dental diseases in pets,” he said.
He said deworming plays a critical role in eliminating internal parasites, which can adversely affect animal health and, in some cases, be transmitted to humans. “Vaccinations are equally important as they protect pets from various contagious diseases, some of which can pose health risks to humans,” he added.
Dr Geelani expressed concern over cases where pet owners have neglected vaccinations for years, putting both pets and humans at risk. “By adhering to these preventive measures, pet owners can safeguard the well-being of their animals and significantly reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases, thereby fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and their pets,” he said.
Experts present at the conference said toxoplasmosis is a rare parasitic disease transmitted through cats and teamed it a health concern. Although rare, toxoplasmosis can pose serious risks to pregnant women, including the possibility of miscarriage if an infection occurs due to a cat bite. However, they reassured that such cases are uncommon and can be prevented through proper hygiene practices.
Cat bite cases in Kashmir have been on the rise over the past few years. According to data from the Anti-Rabies Clinic (ARC) at SMHS Hospital, 4,736 cat bite cases were reported in 2024, compared to 5,883 dog bite cases during the same period.
The statistics reveal a dramatic increase in cat bite incidents over the years. In 2018, cat bites accounted for just 8% of all bite cases reported at ARC SMHS. By 2023, this figure had surged to 20%. In 2024, cat bites constituted a staggering 44% of all animal bite cases.
This rising trend has raised concerns among health professionals, who said the surge is due to increased pet ownership, lack of awareness about proper pet handling, and negligence in pet care practices.
Dr Geelani urged pet owners to remain vigilant and proactive about their pets’ health. “It’s not just about the pets; it’s about public health too. We need greater awareness about responsible pet ownership, including regular veterinary checkups, vaccination drives, and community education programs,” he said.
