Toxoplasmosis |
| Q: I have heard that it is not good to change the kitty litter box while you are pregnant. What disease can my baby and I get from doing this and can my cat be tested for it? A: This is a very good question and one that I am frequently asked by expectant mothers. Toxoplasmosis is the disease you are referring to. This organism is actually a microscopic parasite for which our feline friends are the definitive hosts. It is estimated that approximately 30% of cats have been infected with toxoplasmosis, although most of these are feral or outdoor cats since the disease is acquired by ingestion of infected rodents, birds or other uncooked meat. Shortly after infection, the cat will shed the parasite in its feces for 1 to 2 weeks. It is this period of time when human infection can occur. Toxoplasmosis can have devastating affects on the human fetus including birth defects, mental retardation or even death. Immuno-compromised people including those who are HIV positive or on chemotherapy are also highly at risk for developing clinical disease if infected. Cats can be tested for toxoplasmosis by analyzing their blood to determine if the animal has developed a resistance to the disease. If so, the cat has previously been infected and is now somewhat resistant to the disease. Actually, a cat testing positive for having been exposed to this parasite poses less of a danger to the owner than a negetive cat because a cat that already has resistance will usually have little or no shedding of the disease! It is important to realize that toxoplasmosis can also be acquired through eating undercooked meat and contact with contaminated soil. Tips for prevention include: do not eat raw or undercooked meat, wash hands after contact with raw meat, let your husband empty the litter box, wear gloves while gardening, always keep the sand box covered and try to control the stray cat population where you live. Good luck and good pet parenting. |
