Toxoplasmosis - even more dangerous than previously thought.
What?! We all know the stereotype of the “crazy cat lady,” but the euphemism is no laughing matter now that infection with toxoplasmosis is increasingly being linked to the development of mental health issues including schizophrenia. While a causal link to schizophrenia is still not confirmed, it is still a good idea to avoid infection. We do know that toxoplasmosis infection causes nearly 4,000 people to lose their eyesight each year and is a leading cause of food-borne illness in the U.S. Veterinarians are at higher risk of exposure due to occupational hazards (another reason to close your mouth and wash your hands frequently at work).
How many of you routinely discuss toxoplasmosis with cat owners? Your staff? Your kids? Gulp! It is a good idea to check in with cat owners and provide information on toxoplasmosis. Some good stuff can be found at the CDC website. As we all remember from vet school, the oocyst excreted by cats (yuck!) takes a few days in the environment to become infective - all that to say, stop procrastinating and clean that litter box daily!