Toxoplasmosis in Cats: Symptoms and How It Affects Pregnancy

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which can affect people of any age. But if toxoplasmosis occurs during pregnancy, it can be particularly dangerous for the foetus, causing serious complications if the mother is infected for the first time during pregnancy. Here is everything you need to know.

Toxoplasmosis in cats: How is it transmitted?

Cats can become infected by eating raw or undercooked meat containing Toxoplasma gondii cysts, as may happen when they eat meat from infected rodents or birds. Two types of infection should be considered here:

1. Primary infection: When a cat is infected for the first time, it may develop symptoms of toxoplasmosis, although many cats do not show obvious clinical signs.
2. Chronic infection: Once infected, the cat may remain a chronic carrier of the parasite and, although it will not always show symptoms, it may excrete oocysts in its faeces for a period of time after the initial infection.

How do people become infected?

If a cat is infected, it may excrete oocysts in its faeces, contaminating the environment. If a person or animal comes into contact with infected faeces (for example, when cleaning the litter tray), they may be at risk of infection. It is important to note that for infection to occur in humans or other animals, the oocysts must mature in the environment for 1-5 days, which means toxoplasmosis cannot be contracted immediately after a cat excretes the oocysts.

Symptoms of toxoplasmosis in cats

Although cats are more likely to be asymptomatic, in some cases, especially if their immune system is compromised, they may develop symptoms of toxoplasmosis, such as:

• Fever.
• Loss of appetite.
• Lethargy or tiredness.
• Breathing difficulties.
• Neurological problems (such as seizures or lack of coordination).

Pregnancy and a positive toxoplasmosis result: what are the risks?

A positive toxoplasmosis result during pregnancy indicates an active or previous infection by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. The main risk is transmission to the foetus, which can cause serious complications. If a pregnant woman becomes infected with toxoplasmosis, the parasite may pass to the foetus through the placenta, potentially causing problems such as:

• Brain damage.
• Eye damage (retinitis).
• Hydrocephalus (build-up of fluid in the brain).
• Developmental delay.
• Miscarriage or stillbirth.
• Premature birth.

When can it be transmitted during pregnancy?

The likelihood of contracting toxoplasmosis during pregnancy

• First trimester: Although there is a lower risk of transmission, the consequences are more serious if the parasite reaches the foetus. The risk of transmission to the foetus is 15%.
• Second trimester: The risk of transmission is higher, but the consequences tend to be less serious than if it occurs in the early weeks. The risk of transmission to the foetus is 25-30%.
• Third trimester: The risk of transmission to the foetus is 60-65%, and may rise to 70-90% if the infection occurs after week 30.

How can I prevent my cat from becoming infected?

1. Avoid raw meat: this is the main source of infection.
2. Regular veterinary check-ups: Keep cats healthy through regular check-ups to make sure they are free from parasites and disease.
3. Litter tray hygiene: Clean the litter tray regularly (at least once a day) and use gloves to avoid direct contact with faeces.
4. Avoid contact with rodents or dead animals.

How can I tell if my cat has toxoplasmosis?

At your usual veterinary practice, your vet will carry out an examination to assess possible symptoms compatible with the disease and, if present, blood tests with antibody testing should be performed; these are the most recommended methods for detecting it. In asymptomatic cats, test results are very likely to be negative.

3 tips to prevent Toxoplasmosis

1. Reduce exposure to cats: The parasite Toxoplasma gondii is found in the faeces of infected cats. It is recommended that pregnant women avoid cleaning cats' litter trays. If there is no other option, it is crucial to wear gloves and wash hands very thoroughly afterwards.
2. Cook food thoroughly or wash it very well if it is to be eaten raw:The parasite may be present in raw or undercooked meat, especially pork, lamb or venison, so meat should be cooked thoroughly at the appropriate temperatures. It may also be present in raw fruit and vegetables.
3. Avoid contact with soil: It is advisable not to handle soil from gardens or allotments without gloves, as it may be contaminated.

But do not worry, with the necessary precautions, living with your cat while you await the newest member of the family will be safe for everyone. Bear in mind that the likelihood of contracting toxoplasmosis during pregnancy is very low if prevention recommendations are followed, estimated at around 2 in every 1,000 non-immune pregnant women.