For many cat lovers, there’s nothing cozier than curling up in bed with a purring feline at their feet—or even nestled beside their head. Millions of people around the world happily share their beds with their cats, considering it a gesture of love and companionship.
But what if that sweet nighttime cuddle is putting your health at risk?
Most pet owners don’t realize that sleeping with cats can increase your risk of exposure to serious health threats, especially a little-known but widespread parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. This organism causes toxoplasmosis, a disease that can be mild for some—but dangerously life-altering for others.
If you’re over 60, have a weakened immune system, or live with someone who does, this is information you need to know.
What Is Toxoplasmosis—and Why Should You Be Concerned?
Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a microscopic parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. It’s most commonly spread through the feces of infected cats—especially cats that hunt rodents or are fed raw meat.
Cats can become infected after eating raw or undercooked meat, or catching mice, birds, or other small prey. Once infected, the parasite lives in their intestines and can be passed into their litter box, where it becomes airborne or attaches to surfaces.
While many cats show no symptoms at all, they can still shed the parasite in their waste. And because the parasite’s eggs (called oocysts) are incredibly tiny and resistant, they can survive in litter dust, bedding, and even in the air for several days.
Now imagine this: you’re sleeping next to your cat each night, possibly inhaling particles or coming into skin contact with anything they’ve stepped on after using the litter box. That quiet companionship suddenly looks a little more risky.
Who’s Most at Risk?
In healthy adults with strong immune systems, toxoplasmosis often goes unnoticed or causes only mild, flu-like symptoms—headache, muscle aches, maybe a low fever.
But for others, this parasite can do real damage.
High-risk groups include:
- Pregnant women: If a woman contracts toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, the infection can pass to the unborn baby, leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious birth defects.
- Older adults: As we age, our immune systems naturally weaken, making it harder to fight off infections like toxoplasmosis.
- People with compromised immune systems: This includes those with HIV/AIDS, individuals undergoing chemotherapy, or people with autoimmune disorders.
For these vulnerable groups, toxoplasmosis can cause brain inflammation, vision problems, seizures, or damage to the lungs and other vital organs.
In short, what seems like a harmless nighttime habit could actually open the door to a potentially life-threatening illness.
But I Love Sleeping With My Cat—What Can I Do?
You don’t have to banish your cat from the bedroom forever. But you do need to take steps to reduce your risk and protect your health—especially if you or someone in your household is in a higher-risk group.
Here’s how you can keep snuggling safely:
1. Clean the Litter Box—But Do It Right
The parasite’s eggs take 1 to 5 days to become infectious once they’re shed, so daily cleaning is crucial.
- Scoop the litter box every single day
- Always wear gloves and a face mask while cleaning it
- Wash your hands thoroughly afterward, even if you used gloves
- If you’re pregnant or immunocompromised, delegate this task to someone else
You might also consider switching to low-dust litter and placing the litter box in a well-ventilated, low-traffic area of the home.
2. Keep Your Cat Indoors
Indoor cats are far less likely to be exposed to the parasite. Outdoor cats that hunt birds and rodents—or eat from the garbage—are much more likely to contract and spread toxoplasmosis.
If your cat already goes outside:
- Consider limiting their time outdoors
- Prevent hunting behavior if possible
- Keep them away from unfamiliar or potentially infected animals
3. Practice Good Hygiene Around Your Pet
It’s easy to forget how quickly germs can spread when you’re relaxed and affectionate at home. But small changes can make a big difference.
- Avoid kissing your cat on the mouth or nose
- Wash your hands after petting your cat, especially before meals
- Don’t let your cat walk on food prep surfaces or your pillow
- Launder bedding (yours and theirs) regularly
4. Cook Your Food Thoroughly
Toxoplasmosis isn’t just spread by cats—it can also come from undercooked meat, especially pork, lamb, and venison. In fact, meat is a common source of infection for adults.
If you’re pregnant or have a compromised immune system:
- Always cook meat to a safe internal temperature
- Avoid tasting meat before it’s fully cooked
- Wash cutting boards, knives, and hands after handling raw meat
Silent, But Not Harmless: The Hidden Risk of Toxoplasmosis
One of the most troubling things about toxoplasmosis is how silent it often is. A cat can be infected without showing symptoms. You can contract the parasite and feel fine—until months or even years later, when complications begin to surface.
In some cases, toxoplasmosis has been linked to:
- Eye damage and vision loss
- Brain swelling and confusion
- Long-term fatigue or memory issues
- Seizures or coordination problems
Because the symptoms can mimic other illnesses, it’s often missed or misdiagnosed—especially in older adults.
Should You Stop Sleeping With Your Cat?
Not necessarily. Many people live their entire lives sleeping next to their cats without ever becoming ill. But if you fall into a high-risk group, it may be worth reconsidering that bedtime habit—or at least taking serious hygiene precautions.
Ask yourself:
- Is my immune system compromised?
- Do I have respiratory or autoimmune issues?
- Am I or someone in my home pregnant?
- Is my cat an outdoor hunter?
- Do I regularly clean the litter box myself?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, it’s time to adjust how you interact with your pet, especially around bedtime.
Snuggle Smart
There’s nothing wrong with loving your cat. They bring joy, comfort, and companionship into our lives—especially as we age. But love doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health.
If you choose to sleep with your cat, do it smartly:
- Stay clean.
- Keep your cat healthy.
- Be proactive, not reactive.
Because a cozy cuddle shouldn’t come with hidden risks.
