Can you get toxoplasmosis from a cat? - briefly
Yes, humans can contract toxoplasmosis from cats, primarily through contact with infected cat feces or contaminated soil.
Can you get toxoplasmosis from a cat? - in detail
Yes, it is possible to contract toxoplasmosis from a cat, particularly through exposure to the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which cats can carry and shed in their feces. Cats, especially those that hunt and consume raw prey, can become infected with the parasite. When a cat is infected, it excretes millions of microscopic oocysts in its feces, which can remain infectious in the environment for months. Humans can become infected by accidentally ingesting these oocysts, which can occur through handling cat litter, gardening in soil contaminated with cat feces, or touching surfaces that have been contaminated and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes without proper handwashing. It’s important to note that not all cats carry the parasite, and indoor cats that do not hunt or eat raw meat are less likely to be infected. Pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe complications from toxoplasmosis, so they should take extra precautions, such as avoiding cleaning litter boxes or wearing gloves and washing hands thoroughly if they must do so. Proper hygiene, regular cleaning of litter boxes, and avoiding exposure to potentially contaminated soil are effective ways to reduce the risk of infection.