At Just Cats Clinic in Reston, Virginia, our approach to feline health extends far beyond the exam room. Through the lens of the One Health initiative, we recognize that keeping your cat healthy also supports the health of your family, your community, and the environment.

In this blog, we explore the essential role cats play in the broader One Health framework, and how responsible pet care can make a lasting impact—locally and globally.

What Is One Health—and Why Does It Matter to Cat Owners?

Defining One Health

One Health is a collaborative, global approach that acknowledges the connection between human health, animal health, and the environment. It promotes interdisciplinary solutions to public health challenges, including:

  • Emerging infectious diseases
  • Antimicrobial resistance
  • Food safety and biosecurity
  • Climate-related health risks

Learn more from the CDC →

The Role of Veterinary Medicine in the One Health Ecosystem

Veterinarians serve on the front lines of One Health by:

  • Identifying and preventing zoonotic diseases
  • Monitoring animal health trends that may indicate environmental hazards
  • Advising on antibiotic stewardship to combat resistance
  • Promoting sustainable pet care and environmental awareness

One Health – It’s All of Us – FDA →

Zoonotic Diseases: How Cats Can Affect Human Health

Common Feline-Linked Zoonoses

Cats can carry or transmit several infectious diseases that may affect people, including:

  • Toxoplasmosis
  • Ringworm (dermatophytosis)
  • Bartonella henselae (cat scratch disease)
  • Rabies
  • Salmonella
  • Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) – While rare, there is increasing concern about bird flu transmission from cats who hunt or scavenge infected birds.

Feline Bird Flu Update – ASPCA →

Zoonotic Disease FAQ – AVMA →

Who Is Most at Risk?

  • Immunocompromised individuals
  • Pregnant women
  • Young children and elderly people

Responsible pet ownership—including regular vet visits, hygiene practices, and preventive care—helps reduce the risk of transmission to vulnerable people in your home and community.

Environmental Impact of Cats and the Importance of Responsible Ownership

How Outdoor Cats Affect Ecosystems

Cats are natural predators, and when allowed outdoors unsupervised, they can contribute to the decline of native wildlife, especially birds and small mammals. According to the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, domestic cats kill billions of birds annually in the U.S. alone.

  • Ground-nesting birds and endangered species are particularly at risk
  • Native reptiles, amphibians, and rodents are also commonly preyed upon

Learn more from The American Bird Conservancy →

Follow Local Laws and Regulations

Many localities have specific laws regarding:

  • Leashing or containing cats outdoors
  • Trap-neuter-return (TNR) practices for feral cats
  • Wildlife conservation in protected areas

Keeping your cat indoors or in a secured outdoor enclosure (like a catio) helps protect both your cat and the environment.

Veterinary Medicine as a Pillar of Public Health

Early Detection of Health Threats

Veterinarians often serve as the first line of defense against zoonotic outbreaks. Through diagnostic testing, disease surveillance, and public education, veterinary professionals can detect and contain potential health risks before they spread across species.

Role of Veterinarians in Public Health – MSD Vet Manual →

The Human–Animal Bond: Promoting Mental and Physical Wellness

Health Benefits of Pet Ownership

While cats can transmit disease under certain conditions, the overwhelming majority of interactions are beneficial for humans. Research shows that cat ownership is linked to:

  • Lower blood pressure and heart rate
  • Reduced stress and anxiety
  • Decreased feelings of loneliness
  • Improved quality of life for seniors and people with chronic illness

These benefits underscore the importance of keeping your cat healthy—not just for their sake, but for yours too.

One Health and Pet Ownership – Vet Times →

The Environment’s Effect on Cat Health

Climate Change and Disease Patterns

As global temperatures rise and ecosystems shift, cats (especially those who go outdoors) are exposed to new threats, including:

  • Vector-borne diseases like Lyme disease or heartworm
  • Toxins from polluted soil or water
  • Wildfire smoke and urban air pollution

These environmental changes can affect even indoor cats through airborne allergens or changes in building ventilation. Regular veterinary visits help track these risks early.

Just Cats Clinic’s Commitment to One Health

At Just Cats Clinic, we integrate One Health principles into every part of our feline-focused care:

  • Routine parasite prevention to protect both pets and people
  • Core vaccinations including rabies and feline leukemia virus (FeLV)
  • Indoor lifestyle and enrichment counseling
  • Environmental safety checks and travel health advice

Explore Our Services →
 Urgent Cat Care →

How Cat Owners Can Support the One Health Mission

Your daily choices matter. Here’s how you can contribute:

  • Keep your cat indoors or supervised in safe outdoor enclosures
  • Schedule annual wellness exams and vaccinations
  • Use year-round parasite prevention
  • Clean litter boxes daily, especially if pregnant or immunocompromised
  • Report unusual symptoms or wildlife exposure to your vet

These small steps help prevent disease, support wildlife conservation, and strengthen the human–animal bond.

Healthy Cats, Healthy Communities

By caring for your cat, you’re playing a part in a much larger picture—protecting your household, supporting your neighbors, and helping safeguard our shared environment.

At Just Cats Clinic, we’re proud to be your partner in feline health and global wellness—one exam, one conversation, and one healthy cat at a time.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Schedule a Wellness Visit →
 Why AAHA Accreditation Matters →

Additional Resources