parasitic disease Cat, Sheep Transmissible to humans

Toxoplasmosis

Find a veterinarian All cat diseases

Definition Signs Causes Transmission Diagnosis Prevention Sources Affected species

What is it?

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by a small microscopic parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. The cat is the main host which harbors the parasite and sheds it in its feces, but many animals such as sheep and goats can also be infected. This disease is particularly worrying because it can be transmitted to humans, particularly pregnant women.

Commonly observed signs

These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.

Related signs — each one links to its page:

Fever Reduction Diarrhea Abortion Difficulty breathing Swollen lymph nodes Loss of sight Staggering gait

In most adult animals, the infection often goes unnoticed without visible signs. In pregnant sheep and goats, it can cause abortions, stillbirths or the birth of weaklings. In cats, we can sometimes observe fatigue, loss of appetite, fever or respiratory problems, especially in young or weakened animals.

When to consult without delay

This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.

Causes and risk factors

The disease is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which multiplies in the cat's intestine and forms cysts called oocysts. These oocysts are shed in the cat's stool and become infectious after some time in the environment. Other animals become infected by ingesting these oocysts or by eating infected meat containing cysts of the parasite.

Cats that hunt rodents or birds and those that live outdoors are at greater risk of infection. Sheep and goat farms where stray cats have access to fodder or water storage areas present an increased risk of contamination. Pregnant animals and non-immune young are particularly vulnerable to severe forms of the disease.

Transmission

Transmission occurs mainly through ingestion of oocysts present in cat feces contaminating water, soil or food. It can also occur from eating raw or undercooked meat from an infected animal. Transmission from mother to fetus is also possible during gestation, which explains abortions in sheep and goats.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

If you suspect Toxoplasmosis in your animal, particularly in the event of an abortion in a pregnant sheep or goat, it is important to consult a veterinarian quickly. Only a professional can assess the situation, carry out the necessary examinations and give advice adapted to your farm or household. Never attempt to self-diagnose or treat your pet without veterinary advice.

Prevention

It is advisable to protect livestock food and water supplies from access by stray cats. Good hygiene when cleaning litter boxes and clean management of cat waste reduces the risk of contamination. Avoiding feeding raw meat to cats and thoroughly cooking food intended for consumption also helps limit the spread of the parasite.