Yersinia pestis infection can occur in which animal species?

Yersinia pestis infection can occur in which animal species?

• A. Cats
• B. Dogs
• C. Rats
• D. All of the following

Answer: (D)

Yersinia pestis has a broad host range and can infect many mammals. It is maintained in rodent populations, with fleas acting as the main vectors, but domestic animals can also become infected. Cats are susceptible and can develop serious plague, including pneumonic forms that pose a risk to people, while dogs can contract the disease as well, though often with milder symptoms. Rats are classic reservoir hosts for the bacterium. Because all of these species can be infected, the correct choice is that all of the above are possible hosts. This highlights the zoonotic nature of plague and the importance of flea control and prompt veterinary care to prevent transmission.

Yersinia pestis has a broad host range and can infect many mammals. It is maintained in rodent populations, with fleas acting as the main vectors, but domestic animals can also become infected. Cats are susceptible and can develop serious plague, including pneumonic forms that pose a risk to people, while dogs can contract the disease as well, though often with milder symptoms. Rats are classic reservoir hosts for the bacterium. Because all of these species can be infected, the correct choice is that all of the above are possible hosts. This highlights the zoonotic nature of plague and the importance of flea control and prompt veterinary care to prevent transmission.