This week’s segment features Archie the 15-week-old cat!!! Archie came to us after being found with severe lethargy and neurological abnormalities. After examination and diagnostic testing, Archie was found to be infected with Toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by the protozoal parasite Toxoplasma gondii, and while cats are the definitive host, most infected cats show little to no signs of illness. When clinical signs do occur, they can vary widely and may include lethargy, fever, decreased appetite, respiratory issues, eye inflammation, or neurologic abnormalities such as incoordination or seizures. Kittens and immunocompromised cats are more likely to develop noticeable or severe disease.
Diagnosis of toxoplasmosis can be challenging, as there is no single test that definitively confirms active infection in every case. We typically use a combination of bloodwork, including antibody titers, along with clinical signs and history to make an informed diagnosis. In some cases, additional testing may be recommended depending on the severity and presentation of symptoms.
Treatment is available and often effective, especially when started early. Most commonly, we use specific antibiotics such as clindamycin to target the parasite, along with supportive care depending on the cat’s condition. Many cats respond well to treatment and recover fully, though the length of therapy may vary based on severity.
From a public health standpoint, toxoplasmosis is important because it is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted to humans. People are most commonly exposed by ingesting undercooked meat or through contact with contaminated soil, but cats can shed the infective oocysts in their feces for a short period after initial infection. The risk of transmission from household cats is relatively low with good hygiene practices, such as daily litter box cleaning, handwashing, and keeping cats indoors. Extra precautions are especially important for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Unfortunately for Archie because he already had neurologic effects of the disease, he will always have deficits but he is in a loving home that has made all necessary accommodations for him to live a happy and healthy life. After prolonged antibiotic therapy he has fully cleared his Toxoplasmosis infection!!!