Toxoplasmosis can cause severe illness in infants or in persons with a weakened immune system. Domestic cats can be part of the cycle of infection. Although toxoplasmosis can be found in bird, livestock and poultry, only cats are the perfect hosts for the production of the infectious and resistant toxoplasma oocysts.

Cats get Toxoplasma infection by eating infected rodents, birds or other small animals, or anything contaminated with feces from another cat that is releasing the parasite. After a cat has been infected, it can release the parasite in its feces for up to two weeks. At present there is no vaccine for toxoplasmosis in cats.

To protect yourself: Change litter daily and dispose of used litter safely, preferably in a sealed plastic bag. If you are pregnant, avoid changing the litter box if possible (or use rubber gloves). You should also cover sand outdoor boxes when not in use. Be sure to wash hands with soap and water after petting your cat or cleaning cat litter. More information on toxoplasmosis can be found here.

Posted by Julie.