Toxoplasmosis from Rabbits?

I am concerned because I am pregnant and have read that feline litter box duties could lead to toxoplasmosis. No one seems to know if this could be contracted by handling rabbit litter boxes. So far my husband has been really wonderful about cleaning the litter boxes but I would really like to know if this is something I should be concerned with. I was hoping you might have some insight on this.

Cynthia Alex
Salt Lake City, UT

According to Carolynn Harvey, DVM, toxoplasmosis is adapted to the cat, and only reproduces in the cat. Occasionally, a rabbit or a dog can become infected, but if they do, it’s a non-patent infection, meaning that it doesn’t reproduce and a rabbit (or dog) cannot shed it.

Toxoplasmosis from Rabbits? was originally published in House Rabbit Journal Volume III, Number 5

  • Marinell Harriman

    Marinell Harriman is the author of The House Rabbit Handbook. Over the past 35 years she has fostered and rescued hundreds of rabbits. She has published numerous articles on house rabbit philosophy, care, and behavior. She has a special place in her heart for disabled and special needs rabbits.

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