Understanding Toxoplasmosis: Parasite Risks in Pets

What is Toxoplasmosis?

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a singlecelled parasite known as Toxoplasma gondii, affecting both humans and animals.

Toxoplasma belongs to a group of parasites called protozoa, which are known for their tiny size and simple structure.

(These singlecelled parasites are found in nearly all mammals and birds worldwide.)

Typically, when a person is infected with toxoplasmosis, there are no apparent symptoms. However, pregnant women may be at risk of transmitting the infection to their fetus.

Conditions for Infection

One may become infected with toxoplasmosis under certain circumstances, such as when cats are allowed to roam freely, consume raw meat or unboiled water, or eat undercooked meat. Other potential sources include unsterilized milk, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and improper handling of cat feces.

For transmission to humans, the conditions are quite specific. Firstly, you must have a cat at home that has produced its first ever infected feces, which were not cleaned up within two days or more (fresh feces are not infectious; the Toxoplasma cysts need to incubate for 25 days to become contagious). Additionally, you must be pregnant, come into contact with the feces without wearing gloves, and then eat without washing your hands, which could lead to infection.

How to Prevent Toxoplasmosis

1. Avoid consuming undercooked meat;

2. Refrain from coming into contact with infected cat feces;

3. Undergo toxoplasmosis testing;

4. Practice proper pet care.