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Is my cat's eye infection contagious to me? My eye is inflamed.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 9.5 lbs

I've been treating Abba for severe eye issues. Her eye was recently sewn shut to inhibit healing, also an oral antibiotic, anti fungal med. They're thinking a sever case of herpes. My question: can I contract any bacteria from her? I already do have the herpes virus, but my eye has become inflammed, since working closely with her.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on February 11th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If you are having eye issues you should see a human physician. Feline Herpes is not contagious to people as people herpes is not contagious to cats. As long as you wash your hands and do not touch your eye after handling Abba you shouldn't contract a bacterial infection from her. If your Vet cultured a specific bacterial from Abba you should ask them about the zoonotic potential of that bacteria. I hope this helps and I wish you both the best!

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