Could your brain be quietly under attack—by a cat poop parasite?
According to a new study from UC Riverside, as many as 100 million Americans may be infected with Toxoplasma gondii.
Toxoplasma gondii is a sneaky parasite that can disrupt how brain cells talk to each other.
You can catch it from eating undercooked meat or even cleaning a litter box.
And here’s the creepy part: most people never know they have it.
The parasite messes with neurons, the brain’s communication network, says lead researcher Emma H. Wilson.
“Even a handful of infected neurons can shift the brain’s neurochemical balance,” she explains.
The study, published in PLoS Pathogens, found the parasite interferes with how cells release extracellular vesicles.
These are tiny messengers essential for brain function.
What’s The Result?
A potential rise in glutamate levels, which can trigger seizures and other neurological issues.
While T. gondii often lies dormant for years, it can activate unexpectedly and cause serious illness.
“There’s no need to panic,” Wilson adds. “But pregnant people should be especially cautious.”
The takeaway? Cook your meat well. Wash your veggies.
And maybe let someone else handle the cat litter.
Because sometimes the biggest threats are the ones we never see coming.
