Toxoplasmosis in Cats and Dogs

Toxoplasmosis in Cats and Dogs

Toxoplasmosis is a disease that results from infection with a protozoan parasite; Toxoplasma gondii.

Symptoms range from none to benign lymphadenopathy, a mononucleosis-like illness, to life-threatening central nervous system (CNS) disease or involvement of other organs in immunocompromised people. Encephalitis can develop in patients with AIDS and low CD4 counts. Retinochoroiditis, seizures, and intellectual disability occur in congenital infection. Diagnosis is by serologic tests, histopathology, or polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Treatment is most often with pyrimethamine plus either sulfadiazine or clindamycin. Corticosteroids are given concurrently for retinochoroiditis.

Human exposure to toxoplasmosis is common wherever cats are found!!!

Then they can pass the infection on to humans and other animals through their feces. Moreover, Toxoplasma parasites can be present in raw or undercooked meat.

Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis in Cats and Dogs are

Seizures

After starting medication, the dogs or cats often start to feel better in 1-2 days, but require treatment for at least two weeks. If the infected patient has a weak immune system, it may take around 4 weeks.

How to prevent

Avoid treating raw or undercooked meat.