Cats in the U.S. produce an astounding 1.2 million metric tons of feces each year, which, unbeknownst to many, could be posing a serious health risk. The culprit is a parasite that resides in cat poop, called Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), a protozoa responsible for causing the disease toxoplasmosis. While infections were once believed to only affect pregnant women or those with vulnerable immune systems, toxoplasmosis now seems to be a growing concern for everyone, with links to serious conditions like schizophrenia, brain cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.
The Invisible Threat
Toxoplasma gondii may be a bigger issue than initially thought as its oocysts (eggs) have an impressively long life and have been associated with several devastating diseases. According to E. Fuller Torrey, who serves as the director of the Stanley Medical Research Institute, cat owners with indoor cats have little to worry about since cats become infected through the consumption of contaminated birds, mice, or other small mammals.
However, if your cat, or even a neighbor’s cat, likes to spend time outdoors, you should take extra care. Oocysts can be spread into soil, grass, and water which makes it all the more important to be diligent about handling litter boxes, covering sandboxes, and using gloves while gardening. The dirt found underneath your fingernails after a day of gardening could harbor up to 100 T. gondii oocysts – and it only takes one to start an infection.
Both Torrey and coauthor Robert Yolken of Johns Hopkins University Medical Center agree that extra care should be taken around young children who may be at the strongest risk. While many unknowns remain, this is still a cause for concern.
Reducing Your Risk
There’s no need to panic and give up your furry friend just yet. By taking some simple precautions, you can minimize the potential dangers associated with T. gondii:
- Keep your cat indoors: While you might feel like you’re depriving your feline friend of the joys of the great outdoors, keeping your cat indoors might save it from becoming infected in the first place. Indoor cats are less likely to encounter contaminated prey.
-
Be careful with litter: Clean your cat’s litter box daily, wearing gloves and disposing of the waste in a sealed bag. Litter boxes should be washed at least once a week with hot water and soap. Avoid handling cat litter if you are pregnant or immunocompromised.
-
Practice good hygiene: Always wash your hands with soap and water after handling anything that may have come into contact with T. gondii, such as soil, sand, cat litter, or cat feces.
-
Maintain a clean environment: Regularly clean objects and surfaces that your cat and any other animals in your home come into contact with. Prevention is always better than dealing with an infection.
-
Protect your children: Young kids are usually most at risk, so teach them the importance of washing their hands and avoiding contact with cat feces. Keep sandboxes covered when not in use, and supervise children when playing in outdoor areas that may contain cat feces.
-
Seek veterinary care: Make sure your cat has regular check-ups and is up to date on all vaccinations. Your vet can provide additional tips and advice on how to protect your cat from T. gondii.
By following these measures, cat owners can continue to safely enjoy the company of their feline friends while minimizing the risks associated with Toxoplasma gondii. Stay informed and stay vigilant to ensure the health and well-being of all members of your household.
