Attention Can keeping a cat cause this dangerous brain disease? Shocking revelation in Australian research

In today’s times, the craze of keeping cats is increasing rapidly among pet lovers. Cats win anyone’s heart with their cuteness and playful actions. But if you are also a cat owner or are thinking of bringing a cat home, then a recent medical research may surprise you. Scientists at an Australian university claim that being in contact with cats can double the risk of serious mental disorders.

Queensland University study claims schizophrenia

A comprehensive analysis conducted by Australia’s prestigious University of Queensland has found a strong link between cat ownership and the mental illness ‘Schizophrenia’. Researchers closely studied the data of 17 major studies conducted in 11 different countries of the world in the last 44 years. The results of this combined research revealed that people who were close to cats in childhood or adulthood were found to be twice as likely to develop schizophrenia as compared to the general population.

‘Toxoplasma gondii’ parasite hidden in cat feces

After all, how can a cute cat become the cause of mental illness? According to doctors, its real villain is a very microscopic parasite (parasite) found in cat feces (poop), whose name is toxoplasma gondii ($Toxoplasma\gondii$). When a person unknowingly comes in contact with this parasite, it reaches inside the body and directly attacks brain health. It unbalances our brain’s neurotransmitters (especially the chemical dopamine) and can cause inflammation in the brain, increasing the risk of confusion and serious mental illness.

What are the other main causes of schizophrenia?

Experts say that owning a cat is not the only cause of schizophrenia. It is a complex brain disease that can be triggered by many other reasons:

• Genetics: If anyone in the family has had this disease before.

• Severe Stress: Living in depression or trauma for a long time.

• Chemical Imbalance: Disturbance of neurochemicals in the brain.

Cat lovers must take these precautions to avoid infection

If a cat is already present in your house, there is no need to panic. You can keep yourself completely safe from the infection of this deadly parasite by adopting some very easy hygiene tips:

• Always wear disposable gloves when cleaning the cat litter box.

• Immediately after cleaning, wash your hands thoroughly with antiseptic soap or handwash for at least 20 seconds.

• Take full care of your pet cat’s periodic vaccinations and regular veterinary checkups.

• Keep cleaning the floors of the house and the cat’s sitting areas with disinfectant.