What It Is:
Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a microscopic parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. While many warm-blooded animals can become infected, cats are the only known definitive hosts, meaning the parasite can reproduce sexually only in their intestines.
Most cats infected with T. gondii show no symptoms, but in some cases, especially in kittens or immunocompromised cats, toxoplasmosis can cause serious illness affecting the lungs, liver, eyes, or nervous system. It also has zoonotic potential, meaning it can infect humans, particularly those who are pregnant or immunocompromised.
🐾 Common Symptoms
Most healthy adult cats do not show signs, but when symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty breathing
- Muscle weakness or incoordination
- Eye inflammation or vision changes
- Seizures or neurological signs
- Jaundice or yellowing of the skin in severe cases
- Vomiting or diarrhea in some cats
Kittens and cats with weakened immune systems are most likely to develop severe or generalized symptoms.
🦠 Causes and Transmission
Cats become infected with Toxoplasma gondii by:
- Eating infected raw meat or prey like rodents and birds
- Ingesting oocysts (the infectious stage of the parasite) from contaminated soil, water, or surfaces
- Transplacental transmission in rare cases
After infection, cats shed oocysts in their feces for a short time, usually only once in their lives for one to three weeks. However, the oocysts can survive in the environment for months and are resistant to most cleaning methods.
🔍 Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, medical history, and lab tests. Your vet may perform:
- Blood tests for Toxoplasma antibodies (IgM and IgG) to determine exposure and timing
- PCR testing of blood or tissues to detect parasite DNA
- Imaging such as X rays or ultrasound if organ involvement is suspected
- Fecal testing, though it is not very reliable since shedding is brief and often missed
Because many cats have been exposed without becoming ill, antibody tests must be interpreted carefully.
💊 Treatment
Treatment focuses on reducing the parasite load and controlling symptoms:
- Antibiotics such as clindamycin are the most commonly used
- Supportive care including fluids, nutritional support, and anti nausea medication
- Anti inflammatory drugs or anticonvulsants for neurological signs
- Ongoing monitoring if the immune system is compromised
Treatment is usually continued for two to four weeks or longer, depending on response.
🩺 Prognosis
Prognosis depends on the cat’s age, immune status, and how quickly treatment begins:
- Most healthy adult cats recover fully
- Kittens or cats with immune disorders may develop severe or recurring disease
- With treatment, many cats improve significantly, but eye or neurological damage may be permanent in some cases
Preventive measures are important for both feline and human health.
💡 Cat Owner Note
Toxoplasmosis sounds scary, especially with all the warnings during pregnancy. But the truth is, the risk is low with good hygiene and smart habits. Keep your cat indoors, clean the litter box daily, and avoid feeding raw meat. If your cat does become sick, early treatment makes a big difference.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Toxoplasmosis in Cats
Can I catch toxoplasmosis from my cat?
Yes, but the risk is low. The main route of human infection is handling contaminated litter and not washing hands afterward.
Can indoor cats get toxoplasmosis?
It is less likely. Most indoor cats become infected by eating raw meat or catching infected prey.
How do I prevent toxoplasmosis in my cat?
Keep your cat indoors, do not feed raw meat, and use monthly parasite prevention.
How long does a cat shed the parasite?
Most cats shed for one to three weeks only once in their lives after the initial infection.
Should I give up my cat if I am pregnant?
No. Practicing good hygiene, like wearing gloves and cleaning the litter box daily, is usually enough to protect you.
Is toxoplasmosis curable in cats?
Yes. Most cats respond well to treatment, especially if diagnosed early.