# Pet hygiene checklist (outdoor cats & animals)

This checklist helps reduce health risks when petting outdoor or neighbourhood animals.

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### Before Petting
- Avoid petting animals with visible wounds, mange, or heavy dirt
- Do not pet animals while eating or handling food
- Avoid contact if you have open cuts on your hands

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### During Petting
- Keep contact brief and gentle
- Avoid touching your face, mouth, or eyes
- Do not allow licking of hands or face
- Avoid rough play that could cause scratches or bites

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### After Petting
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Clean under fingernails
- Wash hands **before eating or drinking**
- If scratched:
  - Wash the area immediately
  - Disinfect if skin is broken

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### General Tips
- Casual petting carries **low risk** with proper hygiene
- Most risks come from hand-to-mouth contact, not fur
- Normal soap and water are sufficient
- Gloves or disinfectants are usually unnecessary

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### Summary
- Petting outdoor animals is generally safe
- Handwashing is the most effective protection
- Awareness and basic hygiene prevent nearly all issues

> Good hygiene allows safe, normal interaction with animals without unnecessary worry.