Just as not all humans carry the plague, glandular fever, TB and many other noxious diseases, not all cats carry toxoplasmosis but it is sensible to take precautions if susceptible to complications from catching it.
Given what water companies are unleashing on the environment with their habit of emptying untreated sewage into waterways and oceans and the knock on effects on humans living near or swimming in the water or eating food blighted by it, I rather think the problems of cat and dog poo pale into insignificance.
Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
"The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
Toxoplasmosis is fascinating. To complete its life cycle, it reduces the rodent host's fear impulse and makes it more susceptible to predators (such as cats). Then the cats can pass on the parasite to us.
A lot of people carry the parasite that causes toxoplasmosis. There have been studies suggesting an association with an increased rate of traffic accidents, because it affects the perception of risk. Others have shown it increases extroversion, for similar reasons.
"What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour".
Good luck with the marketing on that. 'Are you finding the rising cost of alcohol hard to stomach? Missing the lowered inhibitions on social occasions? Try our all new Parasite Infection™! Parasite Infection™ not only saves you money but might also get you some paid sick time from work. Avoid those irritating hangovers and embarrassing drunken staggering. Our two for one offer also offers a natural weight loss solution using our tried and tested Tape Worm™ treatment. Get your body infected today!'
If you can keep your head, while those around you are losing theirs, you may not have grasped the seriousness of the situation.
@wild edges thanks for the giggle. As both a cat and dog lover, and gardener, I have to say I’m more upset here in France by that fact it is still apparently acceptable for you to let your dog poo anywhere it wants. There is far more likelihood of me inadvertently stepping in dog mess than finding fresh cat poo in my lettuces.
Marne la vallée, basically just outside Paris 🇫🇷, but definitely Scottish at heart.
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Given what water companies are unleashing on the environment with their habit of emptying untreated sewage into waterways and oceans and the knock on effects on humans living near or swimming in the water or eating food blighted by it, I rather think the problems of cat and dog poo pale into insignificance.
A lot of people carry the parasite that causes toxoplasmosis. There have been studies suggesting an association with an increased rate of traffic accidents, because it affects the perception of risk. Others have shown it increases extroversion, for similar reasons.