Hamsters have a low zoonotic potential. Occasionally, salmonella and tapeworm have been documented in large colonies of hamsters, but such conditions are not typical of hamsters kept as pets. Rabbits can transmit ringworm sarcoptic mange and salmonella. Because rabbits often struggle if held improperly, pet owners can be scratched. The scratches can then become infected from bacteria.
Some pet owners develop allergic reactions to guinea pig hair and skin.
Although rare, salmonella is a potential pathogen in guinea pigs. Two species of mange mites, the mange mite, Trixacarus caviae, and the sarcoptic mange mite can affect guinea pigs and be transmitted to people. Influenza is the only documented zoonotic disease of ferrets. Ferrets are susceptible to the influenza virus, and the potential for transmission from humans to ferrets is much greater than the transmission from ferrets to humans. Final Thoughts Environmental stress such as overcrowding, poor sanitation, malnutrition, and concurrent infection are predisposing factors to most diseases, including those with zoonotic potential.