The oocysts are not infective until they sporulate. This occurs 1-5 days after they are excreted in the feces. Infected cats will usually shed the T. gondii organism for only a short period of time. Once the organism is no longer in the feces, the feces is not a potential source of infection to you from T. gondii. Under some circumstances, however, an infected cat may begin passing the organism, again, in the feces.
Severe stress can contribute to a second shedding.
By observing a few simple guidelines for general cleanliness the possibility of disease transmission is significantly reduced. We strongly urge anyone considering adoption or purchase to talk with us first. It is not to be regarded as providing medical advice. Additional information concerning zoonoses can also be obtained from your veterinarian. Bacterial Enteric Infections in Persons Infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus , Frederick J. Angulo and David L. Swerdlow.