What You Need to Know

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a single-celled parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. This organism is a parasite of both wild and domestic cats. It is frequently discussed in the popular media because it can infect people including unborn children. By understanding the organism and following good health practices it is easy to prevent this infection.

The parasite is passed into the environment by infected cats and from there can be ingested by people or livestock. People are most often infected by exposure to contaminated soil or water or by eating under- cooked meat. Worldwide about 30-40% of adults have been exposed to the organism. Most people show no signs of the disease. In people who are immunodeficient, it can produce severe disease. It can also cause severe disease in a fetus if a woman is infected during pregnancy. In both of these cases, the organism can invade the central nervous system.

A blood test can be done to determine if a person has been exposed to the organism. If a person is concerned about this condition she should discuss it with her physician.

Cats acquire the disease by many of the same activities as people. The organism is found in the tissue of infected prey and the cat becomes infected by eating uncooked meat. After a cat is infected they shed the eggs through their feces for a few days to a few weeks. It is a simple matter to prevent infection in your cat. Feed them only prepared food, prevent them from hunting and keep them inside.

Steps to Prevent Toxoplasmosis in People:
1. Wear gloves when you garden or do anything outdoors that involves handling soil.

2. Wash your hands well with soap and water after outdoor activities, especially before you eat or prepare any food.

3. Wash any cutting boards, sinks, knives, and other utensils that might have touched raw meat. Wash your hands well with soap and water after handling raw meat.

4. Cook all meat to an internal temperature of 160° F and until it is no longer pink in the center.

5. Cover children’s sand boxes when not in use.

6. Clean litter boxes daily. It takes 1-5 days for eggs to become infectious.

Toxoplasmosis is a serious zoonotic disease and it is important to take steps to prevent infection. Cat owners are unlikely to contract the disease directly from their feline companion. By following the steps outlined above, this disease is easily prevented without disturbing the human-companion animal bond.

Sources and further reading:
1. JAVMA, Vol 196, No. 2, January 15, 1990; pgs. 233-256- J.K. Frenkel, MD, PhD
2. JAVMA, Vol 189, No. 2, July 15, 1986; pgs. 166-170- J.P. Dubey, MVSc, PhD
3. Perspectives: Charter Issue, Views on Veterinary Medicine: Human Toxoplasmosis; pgs. 8-16- Tyler J. Curiel, MD, University of Colorado
4. AAFP 2003 Report on Feline Zoonoses