Outdoor cats are 3 times more likely to carry infections that cause disease

A team of researchers at Auburn University has found that domestic cats who spend time outdoors are three times more likely to pick up contagious diseases compared to indoor-only cats. The study has also revealed that this risk is increased in countries at higher latitudes, where there are higher rates of parasites among wildlife. Some infections that lead to disease, such as the parasite Toxoplasma Gondii, can even affect pet owners. This particular parasite has been linked to schizophrenia and depression in humans. In addition, outdoor …