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Toxoplasmosis - Cat and Dog (view source)
Revision as of 19:25, 12 August 2010
, 19:25, 12 August 2010→Description
==Description==
==Description==
''Toxoplasma gondii'' is an obligate, intracellular protozoa that is capable of infecting most mammals including man. Cats and other felids are the definitive host for ''T. gondii'', and all other mammals, including dogs, are intermediate hosts.
''Toxoplasma gondii'' is an obligate, intracellular coccidian parasite that is capable of infecting most mammals including man. Cats and other Felidae are the definitive host for ''T. gondii'', and all other mammals are intermediate hosts. ''Toxoplasma gondii'' has three infectious stages: 1) sporozoites contained in oocyts; 2) an actively reproducing stage called tachyzoites; and 3) slowly multiplying bradyzoites. This means that the protozoa can be transmitted by ingestion of oocyst-contaminated food or water, or by consumption of infected tissue. Transplacental infection is also possible.
Enteroepithelial Life Cycle
Enteroepithelial Life Cycle
This cycle is found only in the definitive feline host. Most cats are thought to become infected
This cycle is found only in the definitive feline host. Most cats are thought to become infected