How can toxoplasmosis be transmitted through cat feces?

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Young boy in a red shirt smiles while hugging a fluffy tabby cat, their faces close together. — cats as pets A boy hugging a pet cat.

Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. When discussing cats as pets, it is important to clarify that transmission does not occur through direct contact with the animal itself, but rather through the accidental ingestion of oocysts found in their environment.1

These oocysts are shed in the feces of infected cats. Transmission typically occurs through zoonotic exposure, such as handling contaminated cat litter or soil where the parasite may be present. To maintain a safe environment, it is essential to practice good hygiene, such as wearing gloves when cleaning litter boxes and washing hands thoroughly afterward to prevent accidental ingestion.1