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Malcolm Downes

Toxoplasmosis, your cat and you

If you’re a cat lover in Australia, you’ve probably heard about Toxoplasma gondii, a microscopic parasite living in roughly 2.5 billion people worldwide and sitting tucked away inside brain tissue. Let’s clear up the facts!

The truth about cats and toxo

Your indoor kitty is very unlikely to be the villain here. While cats are the primary hosts that shed the parasite’s eggs in their faeces, they usually only shed them for a short week or two after their first infection. This is most often caught from hunting raw prey like mice or birds outdoors. An indoor pet fed cooked or processed food poses minimal risk.

Where Is the Real Risk?

In high-income countries like Australia, undercooked meat—especially lamb and pork—is actually the main route of transmission. You can also pick up the parasite by eating unwashed produce or coming into contact with contaminated garden soil. For healthy adults, catching toxoplasmosis usually results in zero symptoms or maybe a brief, mild flu-like illness. Your immune system keeps the dormant cysts harmlessly in check for life.

Simple Daily Precautions

If you’re pregnant or immunocompromised, the parasite can pose serious risks to an unborn baby. It can also reactivate when your body is under severe stress, making caution essential. However, you don’t need to farewell your furry mate, just take these simple precautions:
Clean litter daily: Toxo eggs take 1 to 5 days to become infectious, so daily scooping stops them in their tracks. Get someone else to handle it if you’re expecting.
Practice kitchen safety: Cook meats thoroughly, wash veggies well, and wash your hands after handling raw meat or gardening.

That’s it!

Our posts are for general information only – always contact your vet or doctor about specific concerns.

You can learn more about symptoms and medical advice at Healthdirect Australia and read detailed care guidelines for pet owners on the RSPCA Knowledgebase.

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Bird Flu and my cat – update

When we last posted about H5 avian influenza, Australia was still free of the highly contagious H5 strain of bird flu. That has now changed.

H5 bird flu has been detected in wild birds in several states, including South Australia. There is evidence of local transmission among wild birds and it has also been detected in some wild mammals.

Can my cat catch H5 bird flu?

Yes. Cats can become infected with H5 bird flu, although infections in cats and dogs have been uncommon overseas.

Cats are at greater risk if they hunt, scavenge or come into contact with infected birds or other wildlife. Overseas infections have also been associated with eating raw pet food or drinking unpasteurised milk.

For most Australian pet cats—particularly cats kept indoors and away from wildlife—the risk remains low.

What signs should I look for?

Signs of H5 bird flu in cats can include:

  • fever
  • unusual tiredness or loss of appetite
  • red or inflamed eyes, or discharge from the eyes or nose
  • coughing or sneezing
  • difficulty breathing
  • neurological problems such as tremors, seizures, poor coordination or blindness.

If your cat has been in contact with a sick or dead bird, bird droppings, feathers or a potentially contaminated environment, monitor it for signs of illness for seven days.

If your cat becomes unwell, phone your veterinarian before taking your cat to the clinic and tell them about the possible exposure. This allows the clinic to take appropriate precautions.

Can I catch bird flu from my cat?

The current risk of H5 bird flu to people in Australia is considered low. Humans  generally require close contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. Still, the sensible approach is to avoid direct contact with animals suspected of having H5 bird flu and seek professional advice.

How can I protect my cat?

Prevent contact with wild birds and other wildlife. Keep cats indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure and don’t allow them to hunt or scavenge. Keep their food and water indoors where wild birds cannot access it.

Don’t allow your cat to investigate sick or dead birds, feathers or carcasses. If you have been in direct contact with sick or dead birds yourself, shower and change your clothes before handling your cat.

A good source of general Bird Flu information is the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website.

We will continue to follow developments and update cat owners as the situation changes.

Bird Flu and my cat – update Read More »

What is tooth resorption in cats?

Has your cat has started dropping food, chewing on one side, pawing at their face or drooling unexpectedly? They might not just be being picky. They could be suffering from tooth resorption, a painful yet hidden dental condition that affects up to 60% of cats over five years old.

Tooth resorption is when a cat’s body begins to break down and absorb its own teeth and roots. The process usually starts underneath the gums, dissolving the enamel and dentin from the inside out. As the protective layers erode, the nerve center of the tooth becomes exposed causing your cat pain.

The exact cause is a mystery. It cannot be prevented by brushing your cat’s teeth.

Spotting the Signs

Cats will often suffer in silence but you can suspect tooth resorption if you notice your cat:

  • swallowing kibble whole or favoring soft food
  • head tilting while eating
  • pawing at the mouth
  • becoming suddenly irritable
  • drooling
  • or having red or swollen gums.

To confirm your suspicion, your a vet will take dental X-rays under an anesthetic.

Treatment and results

The usual treatment is full extraction of the affected teeth. For one specific type where the root is already being replaced by bone, a simpler procedure called crown amputation can be done where just the visible crown is removed and the gum closed over.

Removing the affected teeth eliminates the pain.

The good news is that most cats bounce back well with restored appetite and energy but they will need regular checkups to detect re-emergence of the disease in the future.

For more information, check out Pet MD.

What is tooth resorption in cats? Read More »

Is milk good for my cat?

Many of us have an image from our childhood of a cat happily lapping at a saucer of milk.

But the science is out— milk isn’t good for cats!

Most cats are lactose intolerant

Kittens start life drinking their mother’s milk, but after weaning (around 6–12 weeks), they stop producing enough of the enzyme (lactase) needed to digest lactose.

When undigested lactose reaches the gut, bacteria ferment it. This produces gases and acids that lead to bloating, diarrhoea, stomach pain, and sometimes vomiting.  Persistent diarrhoea can cause dangerous side-effects like dehydration and malnutrition.

Studies suggest that about 70% of adult cats cannot properly digest milk, though how seriously they react varies from cat to cat. Some may appear to tolerate small amounts, but that doesn’t mean they are unaffected.

As we noted in our post on pain in cats, they are skilled at hiding discomfort, making it easy to miss subtle signs like mild bloating or soft stools.

What about other dairy?

Other dairy products such as cream, cheese, and yogurt are also a problem. Cream and cheese are especially high in fat, which can lead to weight gain as well as the digestive distress.
Yogurt sometimes contains live cultures that break down some lactose, but it can still cause stomach upset and provides no essential nutrition for cats.

So why do cats crave milk?

It’s partly because cow’s milk is rich in fats and proteins that cats find tasty and satisfying. It also contains casein, a protein that can have a calming effect. But the joy is short‑lived and the digestive upset soon follows.

What about our favourite alternatives…

…like soy, oat, or almond milk?  Nope, they can upset a cat’s stomach just as badly. Even lactose‑free or specially formulated “cat milk” offers no real nutritional benefit.

The bottom line: skip the saucer of milk.  If you want to treat your cat, stick to species‑appropriate foods instead.

Milk may be part of a cozy stereotype, but in reality, it’s more likely to harm than help.

Is milk good for my cat? Read More »

A quick pick through cat vomit

Cats vomit occasionally – more frequently than dogs. This is often due to hairballs or eating too fast but frequent or unusual vomiting can signal health issues.

You should start to worry when:

  • it happens more than once a day
  • its accompanied by lethargy, diarrhoea, or weight loss
  • it contains blood
  • it lasts more than 24–48 hours.

Lets look at six of the main types, shown in the yucky graphic above, and what to do.

1. Hairballs (tubular or cigar-shaped vomit)
Hairballs are common in cats that groom a lot. They appear as compact, cylindrical wads of fur, sometimes with bile. Occasional hairballs are normal. Frequent hairballs, though, may suggest they are overgrooming, possibly from stress, allergies, or skin conditions, or digestive issues.
Regular brushing can help along with hairball-control cat food but if it persists, see your vet.

2. Regurgitated partially digested food
Your cat may be eating too fast or have a sensitive stomach.
Use slow-feeder bowls or feed smaller meals more often, and keep an eye on water intake.

3. Foamy off-white vomit
Foam with little or no food can indicate an empty stomach , mild tummy irritation, or reflux.
Try feeding small bedtime meals. If it persists, check with your vet to rule out more serious causes like pancreatitis or parasites.

4. Yellow bile
Yellow bile is usually from an empty stomach or mild inflammation. It can also be a sign of liver or gallbladder issues.
Feed smaller, more frequent meals. If vomiting occurs daily or with other symptoms such as lethargy or weight loss, see your vet.

5. Red or bloody vomit
Blood may appear as fresh red streaks or dark brown coffee-ground-like material, indicating bleeding in the stomach or esophagus. Straight to the vet!

6. Green vomit
This may suggest she’s eaten non-food items like plants, but a distinct foul smell can mean infection or intestinal blockage so in this case, see a vet immediately.

Vomiting is a symptom. Being able to read your cat’s vomit can save you from unnecessary worry or alert you to a potential challenge to their health.

Take the opportunity help the Feline Health Research Fund’s research into cat health issues in Australia with a small donation by clicking here.

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Nine foods and plants toxic to cats

Common on our tables and in our gardens, ingesting these deadly nine can cause severe illnes or death in your cat.

1. Onions, garlic, and leeks
All members of the allium family, onions, garlic, and leeks, are highly toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause serious damage to their red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cooking or dehydrating these foods doesn’t reduce their toxicity.

2, Chocolate
Like dogs, cats can suffer from chocolate poisoning. Theobromine, a substance found in chocolate, is toxic to cats and can lead to symptoms like vomiting, increased heart rate, seizures, and even death if consumed in large quantities.

3. Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages and foods containing alcohol, like some desserts, can have a severe impact on a cat’s liver and central nervous system. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in cats include disorientation, vomiting, and even respiratory failure in severe cases.

4. Grapes and raisins
While the exact substance causing toxicity is not known, grapes and raisins are known to cause kidney failure in cats. Even small amounts can lead to sudden and severe kidney damage, with symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

5. Xylitol (Sugar Substitute)
Xylitol, a sweetener found in sugar-free gum, lollies, and some baked goods, is extremely toxic to cats. It can cause a rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (i.e. low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure.

6. Oleander 
Oleander is a beautiful yet highly toxic plant. Ingesting even a small amount can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and heart problems in cats, and in some cases, it can be fatal.

7. Lilies
Lilies are particularly dangerous to cats, with all parts of the plant, including the pollen, being toxic. Ingesting or even licking pollen can lead to kidney failure. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Some common lilies that are toxic to cats include Easter lilies, tiger lilies, and day lilies.

8.Sago palm
Though often seen as an ornamental plant in Australian gardens, the sago palm is extremely toxic to cats. Ingesting even a small amount can cause liver failure and death. Symptoms often appear within a few hours of ingestion and include vomiting, diarrhoea and jaundice.

9. Azaleas and rhododendrons
These popular garden plants contain grayanotoxins that can cause serious gastrointestinal distress in cats, leading to symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

There are other common human foods (for example and milk and cheese and raw meat and fish)  that are not recommended for cats but more on that in a future post.

For more information, check out:
RSPCA Australia – Toxic Plants for Cats
PetMD – Toxic Foods for Cats

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When should I bathe my cat?

If you’ve ever tried to give a cat a bath, you probably walked away with wet clothes, a few scratches, and the question: Do I really need to do this?

In most cases, the answer is no, at least, not regularly. Cats are famously clean. They spend up to half their waking hours licking to remove dirt, loose hair, and even odours.

Their tongues are covered in tiny, hook-shaped structures called papillae, which act like built-in brushes. This not only keeps them tidy but also helps regulate body temperature and stimulates blood flow.
Most cats go their entire lives without ever needing a bath—and they prefer it that way.

What if…?
There are scenarios where bathing your cat is may be necessary. If your cat gets into something sticky, oily, or potentially toxic, a bath may be the safest way to remove the substance. Cats with certain medical conditions, such as skin infections, allergies, or flea infestations, may require medicated baths as part of their treatment. In these cases, a vet may recommend a specific bathing schedule and special products.

Long-haired breeds
Long-haired cats like Persians or Ragdolls are more prone to tangles and mats, which can be uncomfortable and lead to skin problems if you ignore them. Regular brushing can often prevent this. Occasional baths may be beneficial, especially for cats who aren’t able to groom themselves thoroughly due to age, weight, or health issues.

If you do need to bathe your cat

  • use a shampoo formulated specifically for cats – never use human shampoo or dog products, as these can be harmful
  • be calm and matter-of-fact
  • choose a quiet, warm room, and use a shallow sink or tub with lukewarm water
  • wet your cat gently, avoiding the head and ears, lather carefully and rinse thoroughly
  • towel-dry as best you can and keep them warm and calm afterward.

If the thought of all this still feels overwhelming, or if your cat is particularly anxious, a professional groomer might be worth the investment or talk to your vet about alternatives.

The great news is you’ll probably never have to do this. If you think you might, here is some extra reading to help you prepare:

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Cat Grooming Tips 

PetMD. (2022). How Often Should You Bathe a Cat? 

When should I bathe my cat? Read More »

A deep dive into the litter tray

While purring, grooming habits, and appetite are common indicators of your cat’s health, one of the most overlooked sources of insight is the litter box. Yes, your cat’s urine and faeces can alert you about their internal health—if you know what to look for.

Urine clues: hydration, kidneys, and more
Healthy cat urine is typically pale yellow, with a moderate odor. If your cat’s urine suddenly becomes darker, very strong-smelling, or unusually dilute, it might indicate dehydration or kidney issues.

Frequent urination or unusually large clumps in the litter box can be signs of diabetes or hyperthyroidism.

Conversely, straining to urinate, producing small amounts, or blood in the urine may signal a urinary tract infection (UTI), crystals, or even a life-threatening blockage—especially in male cats.

Watch for changes and chat to your vet.

Faeces fundamentals: digestive health
A healthy cat stool should be firm, brown, and shaped like a log. If your cat’s faeces are consistently soft, mushy, or watery, it may be due to dietary intolerance, parasites, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Hard, dry stools could indicate dehydration or constipation, particularly in older cats. Never ignore blood or mucous—it can point to infections, parasites, or even tumors.

Behavior around the box matters
Cats that suddenly stop using their litter box may be experiencing pain when they try to go. Maybe it’s arthritis (making it hard to climb into a high-sided box), or discomfort linked to UTIs or gastrointestinal issues.

When to see the vet
You can expect to see temporary changes, especially with changes in food or stress. Any persistent change in your cat’s litter box habits, urine color, stool consistency, or frequency should prompt a visit to your vet. Bring a fresh sample, if possible, it may help fast-track a diagnosis.

So…
Monitoring the litter box might not be the most fun aspect of cat ownership, but it’s one of the most powerful tools you have for safeguarding their health.

The next time you scoop, take a moment to observe. Your cat’s toilet behavior might just be the clue you need to keep them purring for years to come.

 

A deep dive into the litter tray Read More »

Managing your cat alergy

woman holding kitten

If you find yourself sneezing, experiencing itchy eyes, or dealing with congestion around cats, it’s likely due to an allergy to a protein called Fel d 1. This protein is found in a cat’s saliva, skin, and urine.

When cats shed fur or groom themselves, the dander gets released into the air. Even though long-haired cats are often thought to produce more allergens, all cats produce this protein, meaning even hypoallergenic breeds can still cause allergic reactions, though at possibly lower levels.

Implementing a few of these strategies will mean that you can still enjoy happy times with your feline mate.

Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter to remove allergens from floors and furniture.

Wash cat bedding and soft surfaces like blankets, pillows, and couches weekly to keep them allergen-free.

Use HEPA air purifiers to capture airborne allergens and keep the air cleaner.

Keep your bedroom a cat-free zone to create an allergen-free area for sleeping and resting.

Use anti-allergen sprays to neutralise dander on surfaces and furniture.

Cover mattresses and pillows with allergy-proof covers to prevent dander from settling.

Wipe your cat with a damp microfiber cloth weekly to remove excess allergens from its fur.

Brush your cat regularly using a dander-control brush to reduce shedding and the spread of allergens.

Try feeding your cat low-allergen food like Purina Pro Plan LiveClear, which is designed to reduce the amount of Fel d 1 in a cat’s saliva.

Try over-the-counter medications: antihistamine tablets and nasal sprays to reduce the symptoms.

Consider immunotherapy: For long-term relief, allergy shots may help desensitize your immune system to allergens.

For more on the science and practicaities of cat alergy, try these sources:

https://www.thermofisher.com/phadia/wo/en/resources/allergen-encyclopedia/e1/e94.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pet-allergy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352198
https://vet.osu.edu/sites/default/files/documents/allergic%20to%20your%20cat.pdf

Managing your cat alergy Read More »

Can my cat get Avian Flu?

cat watches wild birds

There are alarming reports from overseas of the spread of the highly contagious H5N1 strain of avian influenza but, so far, it is not in the wild bird population in Australia. As an Aussie cat lover. here’s what you need to know:

Can my cat catch avian flu? Yes, cats can catch avian flu, but it’s pretty rare. The main risk comes from eating infected wildlife or raw food, especially if your cat is allowed to roam outside and hunt. If your cat comes into contact with sick or dead birds, there’s a chance it could be exposed to the virus. But, if your cat stays indoors and isn’t around wild birds, the risk is really low.

Should I be concerned? While the risk of your cat getting avian flu is small, it’s still good to be aware. The main concern is that migrating wild birds might bring the virus to Australia, but there are systems in place to monitor and manage that. If your cat doesn’t interact with wild birds, there’s not much to worry about.

Can I Catch Avian Flu From My Cat? The chances of you catching avian flu from your cat are extremely low. The virus mainly spreads between birds, and while a few human cases have been reported globally, those usually happen through direct contact with infected birds, not from pets. So, unless you’re handling sick birds yourself, the risk of getting sick from your cat is pretty much non-existent.

How Can I Keep My Cat Safe?

  • Keep your cat indoors, or at least supervise outdoor time to stop it from hunting or getting too close to wild birds.
  • If you see sick or dead birds, don’t touch them—just report them to local authorities.
  • Make sure your cat’s food is properly prepared, and avoid feeding raw food from potentially risky sources.

Australia is currently free from the highly contagious H5N1 strain of avian flu but there are concerns about the potential spread of the H5N1 strain through migratory birds.  

While it’s good to stay informed, the risk of your cat getting avian flu right now is really low. Keeping your cat safe from wild birds and handling food carefully will help keep both you and your feline companion free of this disease.

We’ll keep you up to date as the situation changes.

There is detailed information in this publication from the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

Can my cat get Avian Flu? Read More »