Toxoplasmosis is a disease of cats caused by a protozoan called Toxoplasma gondii This serious health condition, also known as "cat disease", can lead to felines developing hepatitis, pneumonia and other problems. On top of all this, feline toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis, meaning it can infect humans as well. To help you understand more about this disease and its seriousness, the Paws of the House has put together some information about the symptoms of toxoplasmosis in cats. Take a look!

Toxoplasmosis: how does infection of the cat occur?

Kittens come into contact with the parasite from food. Infection occurs when the cat eats raw or undercooked meat from an infected animal. It is therefore very important to pay attention to the cooking of the ingredients when making recipes such as homemade pâté. In addition, it is necessary to emphasize the importance of indoor rearing. Kittens that live without access to the street are less likely to become infected.contaminate with the parasite, since they follow a balanced and well-prepared diet.

Even so, when feline toxoplasmosis contamination occurs, it takes about 15 days for the protozoan to reproduce. The parasite lodges in the kitten's intestine and forms eggs (called oocysts), which are eliminated by the cat's feces. Contact with contaminated feces is one of the main ways of contagion of the disease to humans, who can also be affected by the disease.consumption of infected water and food.

What are the clinical manifestations of feline toxoplasmosis?

Feline toxoplasmosis is difficult to identify at first, as cats do not show clear symptoms. As the parasite develops in the body, the cat may show signs such as vomiting and diarrhea. In the advanced stage of the disease, the most common symptoms of toxoplasmosis in cats are:

• fever
• shortness of breath
• anorexia
• cough
• jaundice
• muscle pain

When observing the combination of these signs, the main orientation is to take the pet to the trusted veterinarian, since the disease can be transmitted to humans. Some myths are associated with feline toxoplasmosis, which can generate misinformation and animal abandonment: pregnant women and newborns can calmly live with kittens in the same house - since contamination occurs through direct contactIn this case, pregnant women should ask someone else to clean the kitten's litter box.

Treatment: toxoplasmosis in cats is treated with antibiotics

When diagnosed with toxoplasmosis, the cat is treated with the antibiotic prescribed by the veterinarian. The medication is usually indicated for a period of two weeks, and it is important to observe the evolution and recovery of the feline.

The best way to prevent toxoplasmosis is to pay attention to the cat's activities, especially if it has access to the street. When cleaning the toilet of the infected kitten it is necessary that the guardian is careful not to have contact with the feces, using gloves, especially because - as said before - toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis and can be transmitted to humans.