Does the risk of infection differ between viral and bacterial pathogens?
Viruses and bacteria differ fundamentally from each other in their composition, reproduction, infection, type and duration of illness. However, both can cause the typical cold diseases with only slightly different symptoms. There is a risk of infection for both types of pathogens and since the pathogens also differ greatly within the viruses and bacteria, no increased risk can be stated for a particular type.
Overall, the classic, often seasonal colds are mostly caused by viruses. They are aggressive and spread very quickly, but are cured just as quickly. Bacterial colds are less common, but can be much more persistent and can sometimes only be cured with antibiotic treatment.
Is a cat cold contagious for humans?
A cold in a cat is a highly acute and serious disease for the animal. As a human being, however, one can take care of the cat without hesitation, as the cold cannot be transmitted from the cat to humans. The human being can only be a factor in the development of cat cold. Through their clothing, humans can carry dangerous pathogens into the house, which can cause the cat to become infected. However, there is only a danger of infection for other cats.
Is a dog cold contagious for humans?
Even with dogs there is no reason to fear infection. The animals get infected mainly in other dogs, the contact to humans is as far as possible harmless. Dogs generally suffer diseases from a different spectrum of pathogens that usually do not affect humans.
However, rare overlaps of individual viruses are possible. In general, there is nothing to stop you from cuddling a cold dog, as interbreed infections are extremely rare.
