Can you get toxocariasis from cats? - briefly
Yes, humans can contract toxocariasis from cats if they ingest eggs of the Toxocara parasite, commonly found in contaminated soil or cat feces.
Can you get toxocariasis from cats? - in detail
Toxocariasis is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of roundworms belonging to the genus Toxocara. While the primary hosts for Toxocara cati are cats, humans can become infected as accidental hosts. The infection occurs when humans ingest the eggs of the parasite, which are shed in the feces of infected cats. These eggs are not immediately infectious; they require a period of development in the environment, typically two to four weeks, to become infective. Once ingested, the eggs hatch in the human intestine, and the larvae migrate through the body, causing a condition known as visceral larva migrans or, if they reach the eyes, ocular larva migrans. Transmission to humans often happens through contact with contaminated soil, sand, or surfaces where cat feces are present. For example, children playing in areas frequented by cats or individuals handling soil without proper hygiene measures are at higher risk. Additionally, indirect transmission can occur through contaminated food or water. While direct transmission from cats to humans is less common, it is still possible if proper hygiene is not maintained after handling cats or cleaning litter boxes. Preventive measures include regular deworming of cats, proper disposal of cat feces, thorough handwashing after handling soil or cats, and avoiding contact with areas where cats may defecate. Although toxocariasis from cats is relatively rare in humans, awareness and preventive practices are essential to minimize the risk of infection.