The Most Serious Illness from Sleeping with Cats: Prevention and Tips

More and more people are enjoying the companionship of their feline friends, and many cat owners choose to let their pets sleep beside them at night. Sharing a bed with a cat can feel comforting, relaxing, and emotionally rewarding. However, few people realize that this habit can also involve certain health risks if proper precautions are not taken. Understanding these risks and learning how to reduce them allows you to enjoy your cat’s company while protecting your own well being.

One of the most concerning illnesses associated with close contact between cats and humans is toxoplasmosis. This disease is caused by a microscopic parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. The parasite is commonly found in cat feces and can survive for long periods in the environment. Humans become infected mainly through accidental ingestion of the parasite’s cysts. This often occurs when someone touches contaminated surfaces, soil, or litter and then touches their mouth without washing their hands thoroughly.