What is Toxoplasmosis in Cats
Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the microscopic parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). Cats usually become infected by eating infected prey or raw meat. Most infected cats show no clinical signs of illness, but kittens and cats with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop clinical signs of disease. Toxoplasmosis can also infect people who may become infected through contact with infected cat faeces, contaminated soil or undercooked meat.
Further reading: Raw food: benefits and risks
Written by Gillian Burkhill, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published July 2026 | Review date July 2029 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis in Cats
Most cats infected with Toxoplasma gondii show no clinical signs of illness. If signs do develop, they may include:
Reduced appetite
Fever
Eye problems, such as redness or cloudiness
Neurological signs, such as wobbliness, tremors or seizures
Clinical signs are most likely to develop in kittens and cats with weakened immune systems.
When to contact your vet
Contact your vet if your cat develops any of the signs listed above, particularly if they are a kitten or have a weakened immune system. Seek veterinary attention promptly if your cat:
Has difficulty breathing
Has a seizure or other neurological signs
Develops sudden eye problems, such as redness, cloudiness or loss of vision
Becomes very lethargic or stops eating
Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your cat's chances of recovery.
Diagnosis of Toxoplasmosis in Cats
Your vet will examine your cat and ask about their symptoms and medical history. If toxoplasmosis is suspected, blood tests may be recommended to help confirm the diagnosis. Additional tests, such as blood tests to assess organ function or imaging (X-rays or ultrasound scans), may also be needed depending on your cat's clinical signs.
Treatment of Toxoplasmosis in Cats
Treatment depends on the severity of your cat's illness. Most cats with clinical toxoplasmosis are treated with antibiotics, although additional treatment may be needed to manage specific symptoms or complications.
Cats that are severely unwell may need to be admitted to hospital for supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and nutritional support. Early treatment gives your cat the best chance of recovery.
Prevention
You can help reduce your cat's risk of toxoplasmosis by:
Feeding a complete commercial diet or thoroughly cooked meat rather than raw meat (Link to Raw food: benefits and risks article)
Preventing your cat from hunting where possible.
To reduce the risk of infection in people, clean the litter tray daily, wear gloves when gardening or handling cat litter, and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. Pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems should take particular care. For more information about toxoplasmosis in people, visit the NHS website or speak to your GP or midwife.
Outlook
Most healthy cats infected with Toxoplasma gondii never develop clinical signs and have an excellent outlook. Cats that become ill often recover well if treatment starts early.
The outlook is more guarded for kittens and cats with severe disease, particularly if the lungs, liver or nervous system are affected.