Scientists think cats might make some of us more frail in older age

Scientists think cats might make some of us more frail in older age


Cats worm their way into our hearts, bringing us comfort and joy with their nuzzling love. Still, they poop. And there’s the rub.

A study in a journal for gerontologists found that a single-celled organisim called Toxoplasma gondii [GON-dee-I] that is often carried by cats might help increase our frailty in old age.

This can include the loss of muscle mass, feelings of exhaustion and other symptoms of frailty that can hasten disability and death.

T. gondii spreads when cats eat infected rodents or birds. The infection quickly multiplies in their intestines. Humans can then come into contact with the parasites as the cats shed eggs into their feces. You might think: No sweat. It’s not like I collect cat scat as a hobby. But you probably clear and clean your cat’s kitty litter. Enough said.

Eating infested vegetables and undercooked meats also poses a threat.

One in 10 people who are infected initially experience flu-like symptoms. But we can carry the parasite for decades, lingering in our muscle or brain tissue.

The biggest threat occurs when the organism camps out in the brain’s emotional processing area. Evidence suggests people who are thus infected are prone to riskier, impulsive behavior and are more apt to crash their cars. They are also at higher risk of cognitive disorders like schizophrenia.

Oddly, infection might also trigger an entrepreneurial streak, which isn’t a bad thing. Indeed, researchers say there might be other positive influences as well.

In any case, take precautions when tending your kitty. Avoid contact with their you-know-what. Keep them indoors.

They’re still our besties. Well, most of the time.

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