Who is most at risk?
Pregnant: Toxoplasmosis can cause serious malformations in the fetus if contracted during pregnancy.
Immunocompromised people: Those who have weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV patients, people with cancer, or who take immunosuppressants) can suffer serious complications if they become infected.
Young children and the elderly: Their defenses are usually more fragile and they may develop more intense symptoms.
What symptoms can toxoplasmosis cause?
In healthy people, toxoplasmosis is usually asymptomatic or causes mild flu-like symptoms. However, in the most severe cases it can cause:
Persistent fever
Muscle aches
Severe fatigue
Swollen lymph nodes
Neurological complications or eye damage (in severe cases)
Tips for sleeping with your cat safely
Take your cat to the vet regularly to check for any diseases or parasites.
Don’t let your cat into the litter box and then climb straight onto the bed.
Avoid sleeping with cats if you’re pregnant or have a weakened immune system.
Wash your hands after playing with your cat or cleaning their litter box.
Make sure your cat doesn’t go outside, as it can get infected by hunting rodents or infected birds.
Brush their coat frequently to keep it clean and free of contaminants.
