6 Scary Diseases Your Beloved Pets Might Give You

cat
Photo by Boonlert Saikrajang from Shutterstock

Toxoplasmosis

You have definitely heard of this one before, despite its pretty difficult name to remember. And that is because it is mainly connected to cats, and because we make a pretty big deal about making sure pregnant women do not contract this disease.

You can get toxoplasmosis from cat feces, which is why you should be careful when you clean the litter box and always wash your hands after you do so, so you limit the chances of potentially getting it if the cat has the parasite. It is only the infected cats who have it, not all cats out there.

If you have any immunocompromised people or pregnant women in your household, which are the two groups of people that could get complications from toxoplasmosis, you should make sure they do not clean the litter box and that you keep your cat indoors to avoid the chance of getting this parasite.

Generally speaking, cats will not exhibit any symptoms that they have toxoplasmosis, but kittens, since they are more vulnerable, will have diarrhea if infected. In humans, things are very different: you can have toxoplasmosis and be perfectly healthy since the CDC reports that about 40 million people may be living with the disease already. If you are more sensitive, you may end up having flu-like symptoms from toxoplasmosis, including muscle aches and swollen lymph nodes.

< 1 ... 34 5 67>

Share:

Related Article

Watercolor illustration of a spotted cat looking through a window at a vibrant forest, symbolizing the longing for the outdoors.

8 Cat Breeds That Hate Indoors

Discover eight high-energy cat breeds that crave outdoor space, from the lightning-fast Egyptian Mau to the athletic Savannah, and learn how to enrich their lives.

A confident Jack Russell Terrier stands on a park bench in warm golden hour light, looking alert and energetic.

10 Small Dog Breeds with Big Personalities

Discover 10 small dog breeds with massive personalities, complete with vital statistics, temperament traits, and practical care tips for your tiny companion.

A colorful gouache illustration of a chameleon, an arctic fox in two seasonal coats, and a cuttlefish on a textured paper background.

8 Animals That Change Colors

Discover the fascinating science behind 8 animals that change colors, from the seasonal molts of the arctic fox to the structural crystals of the chameleon.

A mixed-media collage with animal silhouettes and the text 'Sorrow is a Universal Language' on a textured, earth-toned background.

8 Animals That Mourn Their Dead

Discover the incredible ways animals process grief. From orcas carrying their calves to dogs mourning their owners, explore the deep emotional lives of wildlife.