Scientists have explained why it is dangerous for pensioners to have cats

Older people often have pets, and doctors usually speak in favor of this decision. It’s not surprising, because cats and dogs help relieve stress and make their owners feel less lonely. At the same time, scientists recently discovered that people over 65 years of age should be more careful when interacting with a cat, writes Dr. Peter.

Scientists from the USA and Spain conducted a study during which they studied blood samples from 600 people over 65 years of age. It turned out that two thirds of them were infected with toxoplasma.

This parasite multiplies in the intestines of cats and usually enters the human body after the owner cleans up the litter box after his pet. Toxoplasma can also be infected if, for example, a cat goes to the toilet in the garden, and then the vegetables end up on the table poorly washed.

Doctors note that toxoplasmosis is not dangerous for people with strong immunity: after infection, symptoms develop in only one person out of ten. By the way, they resemble the flu: aches occur in the body and muscles, and the lymph nodes become enlarged.

However, in old age, the immune system has difficulty coping with such parasites and a progressive infection can subsequently provoke muscle weakness. As a result, muscle wasting occurs, which increases the risk of sprains and fractures in old age. People literally become more “fragile.”

The article highlights that people infected with Toxoplasma are prone to risky behavior and often demonstrate impulsivity. They also have a higher risk of developing schizophrenia and other mental disorders. In addition, people with toxoplasmosis are more likely to attempt suicide.

Experts advise cat owners to change their litter box daily and always wash their hands afterwards. Besides, Elderly people, immunocompromised patients and pregnant women are advised to avoid grooming their cat in general: someone else should change the litter box. It is also better not to pick up stray animals.