Living with pets can be rewarding, and sensible hygiene helps keep the household healthy. Even an animal that looks well can carry germs. Use consistent hygiene and gentle handling.
Wash hands at useful moments
Use soap and running water after handling animal waste, cleaning habitats, preparing pet food or touching pets and their supplies. Help children wash properly before eating. Ordinary soap is suitable; antibacterial soap is not a special requirement for routine handwashing.
Avoid kissing pets around the mouth or allowing them to lick your face, an open wound or medical equipment. Young children need close supervision because they may put hands or pet toys into their mouths. People who are pregnant, older or immunocompromised should ask their clinician about precautions relevant to their situation and the animals they keep.
Handle food and waste carefully
Feed an appropriate complete diet and store it according to the label. The CDC does not recommend raw pet food or treats for dogs and cats because of infection risks to animals and people. Wash bowls and utensils and keep pet food and habitat equipment away from human food-preparation areas.
Pick up dog waste promptly and scoop litter trays daily. Use gloves when appropriate and wash hands afterward. Anyone advised to avoid litter handling should arrange for another person to do it. Keep children's play spaces separate from toileting areas.
Clean without harming the pet
Remove visible dirt from paws when needed using pet-safe methods. Dogs do not need disinfectant applied to their feet after every walk. Clean bedding and toys regularly, and use products suitable for the material and species. Follow label directions, rinse when required and keep animals away until treated areas are safe.
Never use household disinfectants on an animal's skin. Bathing frequency depends on the pet, coat and health rather than a universal schedule. Your veterinarian can recommend parasite prevention and vaccination based on the animal's lifestyle and local risks.
Prevent bites and scratches
Let an animal choose to approach, and give it space while eating, sleeping or caring for young. Avoid tight hugs, cornering or rough play. Supervise children with pets and provide a retreat that children cannot enter.
After a bite or scratch, wash the wound promptly and seek medical advice when skin is broken, the wound is deep or infection or rabies exposure may be a concern. Sudden changes in a pet's behavior can also signal pain or illness and deserve veterinary attention. Calm handling and early care protect the relationship as well as physical health.
