Bubonic Plague in Animals: Risks and Susceptible Species

Yes, animals contract plague (Yersinia pestis). It is primarily a rodent disease (sylvatic cycle).

Reservoir Hosts

• Ground squirrels, prairie dogs, chipmunks, wood rats, voles.
• High mortality in susceptible species → epizootics.

Other Susceptible Species

• Cats: Highly susceptible; hunt rodents → pneumonic/septicemic plague; can transmit to humans via bites/scratches/droplets.
• Dogs: More resistant; usually asymptomatic or mild; can carry infected fleas.
• Rabbits, hares: Susceptible.
• Wild carnivores: Coyotes, bobcats, bears (seropositive).
• Livestock: Rare; cattle, sheep, goats occasionally seropositive.

Human Risk

Flea bites from infected rodents (primary). Direct contact with tissues/fluids of infected animals (hunters, vets). Cat-associated pneumonic plague documented.

Prevention

• Rodent control around homes.
• Flea control for pets.
• Avoid handling sick/dead wildlife.
• Insect repellent (DEET) in endemic areas (western US, parts of Africa, Asia, South America).

Plague is treatable with antibiotics (streptomycin, doxycycline, ciprofloxacin) if caught early.