For many cat owners, sharing a bed with their furry companion feels comforting, safe—even therapeutic. But while the risks are generally low, there is one illness that health experts often mention when discussing close contact with cats:
Toxoplasmosis
This condition is caused by a microscopic  parasite called Toxoplasma gondii, which can be carried by  cats—especially those that go outdoors or hunt prey.
How does it spread?
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t usually get it just from your  cat sleeping next to you. The parasite is most commonly transmitted through:
- Contact with infected cat feces (like cleaning a litter box)
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then your mouth
- Eating undercooked meat or unwashed produce
That said, close contact—like sleeping together—can slightly increase exposure risk if hygiene isn’t maintained.
Why is it considered serious?
For most healthy adults, toxoplasmosis often causes mild symptoms or none at all. But in certain cases, it can be more dangerous:
