Can My Cat's Poop Kill Me?By Robert Lamb, HowStuffWorks.com
 HowStuffWorks1. DEATH BY HALLUCINATORY ENCOUNTER
Raising cats can figuratively drive you crazy. Accidently ingesting their internal parasites can give you a taste of the literal variety of crazy. You might find yourself hearing voices or worrying over your enemies' plots against you and your cats — if the cats can indeed be trusted. Conditions can spiral into delusional thoughts, hallucinations, social withdrawal and even impaired movement and cognitive function.
These are all symptoms of schizophrenia, a debilitating brain disorder that affects 1.1 percent of the U.S. population. They're also symptoms associated with acute Toxoplasma infection. Both conditions affect astrocytes, special cells that surround and support neurons. Furthermore, doctors have found that the antipsychotic drug Haloperidol can stop the growth of Toxoplasma. The growing concern is that the parasite's presence can, in some instances, contribute to cases of schizophrenia.
How surreal is it to read about schizophrenia-induced paranoia in an article about an internal parasite that may not only continue to shape human culture, but which might lurk at this very moment in the belly of your dearest pet? Bear in mind, however, that Toxoplasma transmits through the consumption of undercooked meat most often, as well as from mother to infant and, in rare cases, via organ transplants. So it's not all Fluffy's fault.
Regardless, studies into Toxoplasma's grip on our minds continue. We know some of the mechanisms involved in the parasite, as well as some of the brain chemicals it manipulates, such as dopamine and testosterone. We also know what the parasites want — but unless we're willing to feed ourselves to our own cats, we're going to have to fight back.
Delve further into the bizarre, frightening and fascinating world of parasites and parasitic infection:
Schizophrenia Toxoplasma gondii and Schizophrenia Toxoplasmosis in Cats All in the Mind? Effects of Toxoplasma on Human Behavior Toxoplasma seropositivity and depression: a case report Toxoplasma — the brain parasite that influences human culture Parasite may increase your odds of an auto accident Blood groups Suicide By Tiger in Singapore |
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