DO NOT USE CAT FECES NEAR VEGETABLE GARDENS

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is the infection that can result if the tiny parasite Toxoplasma gondii inhabits the human body. The only way to catch toxoplasmosis is to ingest the parasite. This happens if the owner touches their mouth or doesn't thoroughly wash after coming into contact with cat feces or cat diarrhea. Most healthy people's immune systems can keep the parasite from causing symptoms. For the unborn fetus, toxoplasmosis can cause serious defects. Pregnant women and other people with compromised immunity should avoid cleaning the litter box or should wear gloves and make sure to thoroughly wash their hands after litter box cleaning. It is important to note that only cats who themselves have come into contact with the parasite will have infected cat feces. If a cat eats raw foods, their feces might be more at risk for the parasite. Most indoor cats do not have the parasite in their feces and a cat can be tested for the parasite. It's best to treat all cat feces as if it is infected, however.


Read more: Health Risks Associated With Cat Feces - VetInfo