[jimbo2012]

'Cat Ladies' Likely to Commit Suicide?:

The Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) parasite, which can be spread through contact with cat faeces or eating undercooked meat or unwashed vegetables, causes an increased risk in suicide among women, according to the Telegraph.

The infection, which is called toxoplasmosis, has been linked to mental illness, such as schizophrenia, and changes in behaviour, the Telegraph reported.

The T. gondii parasite thrives in the intestines of cats. Humans can become infected by changing infected cats’ litter boxes. via the Telegraph.

source


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Serological tests are the most reliable tests for making a definitive diagnosis. By measuring the levels of toxoplasma antigens in the body, your veterinarian can determine the type of infection, and whether it is active, dormant, recent (acute), or long term (chronic). Your veterinarian may repeat these tests three weeks after the initial testing as part of a follow-up exam.



Serological tests will also help in determining the levels of antibodies IgM and IgG. Antibodies are proteins that are normally present in the body or produced in response to an antigen (in this case toxoplasma) for the purpose of neutralizing the antigen. Determining the IgM levels helps in diagnosis of active toxoplasmosis, as these antibodies increase in number within one week of infection and may remain elevated for three months. The IgG antibodies increase within two to four weeks after infection and may remain elevated for a whole year to follow. Determination of antigen and antibody levels will help your veterinarian make the confirmatory diagnosis. The polymerase chain reaction test is a reliable test for verifying the presence of Toxoplasma gondii in samples.

[asianthree]

so men don't get it?

[duffysmom]

You've got too much time on your hands...

[Joaniesmom]

All the more reason to make my husband change the kitty litter. Nuff said...

Joaniesmom

[Taltarzac725]

Originally Posted by Joaniesmom

All the more reason to make my husband change the kitty litter. Nuff said...

Joaniesmom

I watch cats from time to time and have had to change litters daily. Wonder if this is one of those Chick-Fil-a things?? Not cows' "Eat mor' chickin" but a kind of dogs' revenge? http://www.chick-fil-a.com/

[graciegirl]

Most people know that pregnant women should avoid changing litter. That information has been out for many years. This article from Wikipedia says that it is not a danger to most people. Are you sure about the suicide part? That sounds pretty extreme. I have known literally hundreds of cat owners over the years and they are still enjoying their felines or exited stage right for natural reasons.

Toxoplasma gondii - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia