Feline And Canine Warts – Can Humans Catch Them? No.
Veterinarian Reviewed on January 22, 2010 by Dr. Janice Huntingford
Oh, Dog. I’ve been chewing and chewing at this little nubbin’ all day, thinking that it was a little tick poking out of my fur. It’s a small, red, hard spot, and nothing’s doing! My human Sage finally came around to check out the spot, and swiftly offed me to the vet.
Turns out, I have “viral papilloma” – a wart. Yes, I have a ruffing growth, ok? It’s no big deal, it’s benign. Meaning not cancerous. It doesn’t mean I’m dirty or gross or anything like that (even though I think I look paw-ticularly my best when I’m dirty and, ahem, gross).
Cause Of Warts
A wart is most often caused by a virus, that’s all. While older dawgs and cats are more prone to them, they can occur in a younger fella, like me – the Papilloma Virus usually affects us youngins, when our immune systems are underdeveloped. Warts can also develop in subaceous glands, or grow on the face and eyes – these can sometimes be cancerous. But for the most part, warts are often painless, light-colored growths, and don’t bother us at all. And they shouldn’t bother you, either!
Humans Can’t Catch Pet Warts; Pets Can’t Catch Human’s Warts
The wart virus, Papilloma, cannot be transferred across species lines. Therefore, you can’t get your human’s wart, and they can’t get yours. But we can, us dawgs or cats, give it to eachother. The incubation period can be up to 1 -2 months.
Pet Warts: Not Dangerous!
Most warts clear up on their own, as our immune systems take care of them. Many vets will recommend removal and biopsy, since they are a growth, but they can safely be left alone and just monitored. Sometimes, an unfortunate pup will have a serious overgrowth – and will be left unable to see or chew foods. In this sad case, some warts can be removed and made into a virus, or doses of azithromycin can be given. Natural approaches to treatment are also available!
Natural Treatments
My human favors the natural treatment approach, most of the time. Try applying Vitamin E or castor oil directly to the wart, a few times a day for several weeks. And make sure your pet’s immune system is strong, by ensuring proper nutrition (read my gluten-free post HERE) exercise, and happiness.
Lick you later (since I’m not contagious!), Buster
Photo Credit: photo_blackangel
Our Expert
Dr. Janice HuntingfordJanice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan
