Can cavies get colds from their humans?

[graciebell]

I hadn't thought about this until today, but is it possible for Lynard and Hendrix to get a cold from me? I came home from a vacation with a cold, and I haven't wanted to pick them up because I don't want them to get sick. I know dogs can get colds from humans, but can they?

Thanks!

 

[Access]

The best answer is maybe, there are many different cold viruses out there (over 200 for common cold alone) and I believe most won't transmit outside species but a few might (ie. asian bird flu, etc.) It's definately best to treat every cold / illness like it is transmissible, you don't want to be sorry later. Even if the virus itself doesn't, secondary infections and the like may so be careful and don't handle them unnecessarily.

 

[AngelsCavies]

Im always in the room where the piggies are, my husband and I both got the cold and they are fine. I held them before and they all are fine. But yes make sure its not some kind that the piggies can get. Also I would call the vet about that and make sure we are right or wrong.

 

[Treen]

As Access said, cold viruses can't be transmitted to them, but bacterial infections can. And who knows when they get ill exactly what they have and whether it may develop in to a secondary infection?

So be sensible if you have a cold - wash your hands before feeding them etc. and hold off on the cuddles and kisses until you're well - better to be safe than sorry.