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

Many people enjoy the comfort and companionship of sleeping beside their cats. A warm, purring feline can be soothing and emotionally reassuring, especially at the end of a long day. While sharing a bed with a cat is common and often harmless, it’s important to understand that close contact can carry certain health risks if simple precautions aren’t followed.

One of the most talked-about concerns is toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by the parasite *Toxoplasma gondii*. This parasite is commonly found in cat feces and can survive in the environment for extended periods. People usually become infected by accidentally ingesting the parasite after touching contaminated surfaces, soil, or litter and then touching their mouth or food without proper handwashing.

For most healthy adults, toxoplasmosis causes no symptoms or only mild, flu-like effects such as fatigue, muscle aches, or swollen lymph nodes. However, the infection can be serious for individuals with weakened immune systems, including those undergoing chemotherapy, living with autoimmune conditions, or managing chronic illnesses. In these cases, the parasite may affect the brain, eyes, or other organs. Pregnant women face additional risk, as a first-time infection during pregnancy can be passed to the unborn baby, potentially leading to serious complications.

The good news is that the risk can be greatly reduced with practical habits. Cleaning the litter box daily helps prevent the parasite from becoming infectious, and whenever possible, this task should be handled by someone who is not pregnant or immunocompromised. Washing hands thoroughly after handling your cat, cleaning litter, or touching shared surfaces is essential.

Keeping bedding clean and washing sheets regularly can also help, even if your cat continues to sleep on the bed. Regular veterinary care, indoor living, and avoiding raw food diets for cats further reduce exposure to parasites.

A healthy cat and a well-informed owner make a strong team. By practicing good hygiene and maintaining both your health and your pet’s well-being, you can continue enjoying your cat’s companionship with confidence and peace of mind.