Surely you’ve heard it hundreds of times, but do you really have this parasite under control? Are you familiar with its symptoms and causes? At Ownat, we explain everything and reflect on some preventive measures that will help clear up many doubts and concerns. Let’s get started!
When you adopt a feline, there are several things to consider. One of the most concerning aspects is diseases and their transmission. Toxoplasmosis is one of the most commonly mentioned and worrisome, and although it’s widely known, there are many aspects we often overlook.
Let’s start from the beginning! What is toxoplasmosis? Essentially, it is a disease caused by a parasite, which is characterized by the formation of cysts. One particularity is that once a cat contracts it, the cat remains infected for life, and it can also be transmitted to humans.
So far so clear, but what causes it? Typically, felines become infected orally—by eating meat or feces from other animals (if that meat or feces already contains cysts caused by toxoplasmosis). Once our cat is infected, small cysts begin to form in the muscles, internal organs, and central nervous system. The “good” news is that most domestic cats don’t usually go outside or hunt, so they are rarely exposed to eating spoiled meat or feces. We mention this to give you a bit of reassurance.
What are the symptoms, or how can you tell if your cat has toxoplasmosis? This really depends on the parasite’s stage of life. During the enteroepileptic cycle (the early stage), cats usually experience mild symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting, which is why alarms often don’t go off at first.
However, if the parasite is in the extraintestinal cycle (a more advanced stage), it can cause cell necrosis, leading to fever, difficulty breathing, apathy, convulsions, ataxia, muscle pain, lameness, pancreatitis, encephalitis, eye problems, among other symptoms. These are severe and generally dangerous symptoms, so if you notice one or more, don’t hesitate to contact your trusted veterinarian immediately.
So, what treatments are available? As mentioned above, if you suspect your cat may have toxoplasmosis, visit an experienced veterinarian quickly so they can perform the necessary tests (blood tests, chest X-rays, ultrasound, biopsies, etc.). Based on these results, the most appropriate treatment will be determined. Keep in mind that the parasite cannot be completely eliminated from the body, but many symptoms can be treated or alleviated.
What are the most commonly used treatments?
– Topical clindamycin: This medication quickly relieves symptoms (except for eye problems).
– Topical or systemic corticosteroids: Administered together with clindamycin when the cat has eye lesions (glaucoma, lens luxation).
And now another important point: what preventive measures should or can be taken? There are several things you can do to help your domestic cat prevent parasite transmission, and your role is crucial! Do not give raw or undercooked meat (including cold cuts), maintain extreme hygiene and cleanliness in your home, prevent your cat from drinking from uncontrolled or dirty sources, and discourage hunting if your cat goes outdoors. You can’t prevent everything, but for situations like this, it’s best to make it VERY difficult for the parasite to reach your cat.
