In healthy people, toxoplasmosis may go unnoticed or cause mild flu-like symptoms.

But in pregnant women, infants, and people with weakened immune systems, it can be devastating.

Sleeping with cats is a common practice, but it’s not completely innocent.

Toxoplasmosis is a silent disease that can wreak havoc if precautions aren’t taken.

If you love snuggling with your cat but want to stay safe, here’s what you can do:

Clean the Litter Box Safely:

Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning the litter box (or have someone else do it).

Clean the box daily — oocysts usually take 1-5 days to become infectious, so cleaning daily reduces the risk.

Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the litter.

Keep Your Cat Indoors:

Indoor cats are less likely to ingest infected prey and shed oocysts.

If your cat goes outdoors