Accurate risk assessment and responsible management of Toxoplasma gondii in cat-owning households.
Toxoplasmosis risk is frequently misrepresented in ways that lead to harmful welfare outcomes for cats, including unnecessary surrender or restrictions that damage cat-human bonds. The actual risk profile - indoor cats on commercial food presenting essentially no risk, with daily litter cleaning further reducing any theoretical exposure - is far more benign than public perception suggests. The welfare cost of unnecessary cat surrender or outdoor banishment based on Toxoplasma fear is real and significant. Accurate risk communication serves both human health and cat welfare simultaneously, as the actual hygiene measures required are straightforward and easily maintained.