How are dogs infected with toxoplasmosis? - briefly
Dogs typically become infected with toxoplasmosis by ingesting oocysts from cat feces or consuming raw or undercooked meat containing tissue cysts of Toxoplasma gondii.
How are dogs infected with toxoplasmosis? - in detail
Dogs can become infected with Toxoplasma gondii, the parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, through several routes. The most common way is by ingesting oocysts from contaminated soil or water. These oocysts are shed in the feces of infected cats and other felids, and they can remain viable in the environment for up to 18 months. Dogs may come into contact with these oocysts while digging, playing, or drinking from puddles or streams. Once ingested, the oocysts transform into tachyzoites, which then spread throughout the dog's body and encyst in various tissues, including muscles and brain.
Another potential route of infection is through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat from infected animals, such as sheep, goats, or pigs. Toxoplasma gondii can form cysts in these animals' muscles, and if a dog eats contaminated meat, the cysts can rupture and release bradyzoites, which then transform into tachyzoites and cause infection.
Additionally, dogs can become infected through transplacental transmission if the mother is infected during pregnancy. In such cases, the puppies may be born with congenital toxoplasmosis, which can lead to neurological symptoms or even death in severe cases.
It's worth noting that while dogs can become infected with Toxoplasma gondii, they are not the definitive host for this parasite. The definitive hosts are felids, including domestic cats, which shed oocysts in their feces and play a crucial role in the parasite's life cycle. Dogs, on the other hand, serve as intermediate hosts and can harbor the parasite in their tissues without showing any clinical signs of disease. However, in some cases, especially in young or immunocompromised dogs, toxoplasmosis can cause symptoms such as fever, lethargy, anorexia, and neurological signs like seizures or ataxia.
To prevent infection, it's essential to keep dogs away from areas contaminated with cat feces, avoid feeding them raw meat, and maintain good hygiene practices when handling pet food and litter boxes. Additionally, regular veterinary check-ups can help detect any potential infections early and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.