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The British Veterinary Association has responded to 'alarmist' headlines linking contact with cats to schizophrenia due to the risks posed by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii.
The report in today's Independent contains some important messages regarding the need for good personal hygiene and the need for pregnant women and immuno-compromised groups to be aware of the risks. However, the BVA says it is concerned that the headlines could cause significant alarm to cat owners.
Most people who become infected are asymptomatic but 10-20% can show transient symptoms which are flu-like. There is a more serious risk to pregnant women and those who are immuno-compromised, but as with all infections common sense and good personal hygiene reduces the risk significantly and the BVA says there is no reason that families with, or those intending to have, children shouldn't have pet cats.
As outlined in the article sources of infection include eating undercooked meat and vegetables that have not been washed properly and contact with cats. It is not known which the greater source of infection is but according to the BVA, anecdotal evidence suggests that meat is likely to be more important than contact with cats. The BVA says it echoes advice that meat should be prepared and cooked properly, and offers the following hygiene advice for cat owners:
BVA Past President and veterinary surgeon Harvey Locke said: "While the facts are true, the headlines in this story have been quite alarmist and we are very keen to reassure cat owners that the risks can be managed with good basic hygiene and common sense.
"The biggest threat is to pregnant women and those who are immuno-compromised, which we have known for some time. It is useful to reiterate that they should take extra care but there is no need for people to get rid of their pet cats or choose not to have cats as pets."
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It makes me so angry that the media don't think of the impact of their actions. I work as a nurse for a cat charity and we already have so many cats bought into us to be rehomed because the owner is pregnant. We spend a lot of time and money educating the public about having cats whilst pregnant and that it is not necessary to rehome them. These alarmist stories are going to be a huge set back for us. Already today we have had five calls from worried newly expectant parents. Whilst there is a risk, some of the papers/websites have highly exaggerated said risk but have also not done their research thoroughly and are giving highly inaccurate facts. I sincerely hope this doesn't increase the amount of cats coming into our care. I'm very glad BVA have jumped on this so quickly and hope that people don't panic. Watch this space I guess..!