What is Toxoplasmosis in Cats?

Cats have a reputation for being clean and independent, but even the tidiest feline can carry hidden health concerns. One of the most common—but often misunderstood—is toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by a microscopic parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. 

In this blog, our team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital shares important tips to help families with felines understand how this parasite spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and how to protect both pets and people from infection.

How Cats Get Toxoplasmosis

Cats typically become infected when they eat raw meat, hunt and consume rodents or birds, or come into contact with contaminated soil. Once infected, a cat may shed T. gondii eggs (called oocysts) in its feces for a short period—usually one-to-three weeks. These oocysts can survive in the environment for months, often ending up in litter boxes, gardens, or anywhere an infected cat has gone to the bathroom.

While outdoor cats and those that hunt are at higher risk, any cat exposed to raw meat or unsanitary litter conditions can contract toxoplasmosis.

Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis in Cats

Most healthy adult cats show no obvious signs of infection. However, kittens, senior cats, or those with weakened immune systems may develop symptoms such as:

• Fever or lethargy
• Loss of appetite or weight loss
• Difficulty breathing
• Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin)
• Neurological changes like uncoordinated movement or seizures

If your cat shows any of these signs, prompt veterinary attention is important for diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosing and Treating Toxoplasmosis

Your veterinarian can diagnose toxoplasmosis with a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and sometimes fecal analysis. Because the infection can mimic other illnesses, professional testing is the only way to know for sure.

Treatment typically includes prescription antibiotics or antiparasitic medications that help control the infection. Supportive care—such as fluids or appetite stimulants—may also be needed for cats showing severe symptoms. Most cats respond well to treatment, particularly when the infection is identified early.

Protecting Your Family and Your Cat

While toxoplasmosis can spread to humans, especially through contact with infected feces, simple hygiene practices make transmission unlikely. 

Here’s how to stay safe:

• Clean litter boxes daily, as oocysts take one to five days to become infectious.
• Wear gloves when cleaning litter boxes or gardening.
• Wash hands thoroughly afterward.
• Keep cats indoors to prevent hunting and exposure to infected prey.
• Avoid feeding raw meat. Opt for commercial cat food instead.
• Pregnant women or those with compromised immune systems should avoid cleaning litter boxes if possible.

A Healthy Home Starts with Prevention

Toxoplasmosis sounds intimidating, but it’s the misconceptions that can cause unwarranted worry and fear. With clear, accurate information, good litter box hygiene, and regular veterinary care, you can mitigate the risks of toxoplasmosis. 

Please contact our caring team at (916) 939-1705 if you have any concerns about your cat’s health or need guidance on safe litter box habits.