Millions of people around the world share their beds with their cats.
And while many see it as a sign of affection and connection, few know that this habit can have serious health consequences.
Of all the diseases that felines can transmit, toxoplasmosis stands out as the worst you can contract while sleeping with your cat.
Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii.
This microorganism can be found in the feces of infected cats, especially if they eat raw meat or hunt mice and birds.
Although many cats don’t show symptoms, they can be silent carriers of the parasite.
In healthy people, toxoplasmosis may go unnoticed or cause mild flu-like symptoms.
But in pregnant women, infants, and people with weakened immune systems, it can be devastating.
Sleeping with cats is a common practice, but it’s not completely innocent.
Toxoplasmosis is a silent disease that can wreak havoc if precautions aren’t taken.
If you love snuggling with your cat but want to stay safe, here’s what you can do:
Clean the Litter Box Safely:
Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning the litter box (or have someone else do it).
Clean the box daily — oocysts usually take 1-5 days to become infectious, so cleaning daily reduces the risk.
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the litter.
Keep Your Cat Indoors:
Indoor cats are less likely to ingest infected prey and shed oocysts.
If your cat goes outdoors, limit their exposure to areas where they could come into contact with infected animals.
Practice Good Hygiene:
Avoid handling food without washing your hands first, especially after touching the litter box or anything that may have been in contact with it.
Don’t kiss your cat on the mouth, as there’s no reason to risk it, and you don’t want to transfer anything like bacteria or parasites.
Safe Cooking Practices:
Toxoplasmosis can also be contracted from eating undercooked meat. If you’re pregnant or immunocompromised, make sure all meat is well-cooked.
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