Some die within a few days of birth. Those who survive sometimes suffer from mental retardation, severely impaired eyesight, cerebral palsy, seizures and other problems. Toxoplasmosis is caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. It can be picked up through exposure to cat feces or by eating raw or undercooked meat that is contaminated with the parasite. Other sources of infection may include raw goat's milk, raw eggs, and insects such as flies and cockroaches that may have been in contact with cat feces.
Cats often become infected when they eat an infected rodent or bird.
The parasite reproduces in the cat's intestine, and a form of the parasite ends up in the cat's litter box, sand or soil. This form of the parasite becomes infectious within as little as one day, and is resistant to most disinfectants. Under certain temperature and humidity conditions, the parasite may live in soil for more than a year. Infected cats usually appear healthy. Toxoplasmosis is one of the most common infections in the world.