In a call for more stringent regulations surrounding roaming cats, Tasmanian Councillor Emma Goyne sheds light on the risks associated with toxoplasmosis, a potentially dangerous infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Ms. Goyne’s own experience has prompted her to champion this cause, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and action in safeguarding public health and the environment.
Ms. Goyne, who does not own a cat, vividly recalls the moment she believes she came into contact with the parasite. While cleaning her horse stable during her 14th week of pregnancy, she inadvertently handled cat feces from a neighborhood cat that had been using her stable as a litter box. Despite washing her hands promptly, Ms. Goyne suspects that the brief exposure was enough for infection.
Initially experiencing cold and flu-like symptoms, she dismissed them, but when they persisted, a medical examination revealed she had contracted toxoplasmosis. Fortunately, her pregnancy remained healthy, and she gave birth to her son, Aaryon, although he later developed permanent hearing loss.
Cats are the primary host for Toxoplasma gondii, and they contract it from infected prey. Once infected, individuals carry the parasite for life, with no cure available, although most remain asymptomatic. The parasite can survive in cat feces for extended periods, posing a risk to livestock and even infecting them during grazing. Consuming raw or undercooked meat is the most common route of human infection.
Toxoplasmosis, as experienced by Ms. Goyne, can result in eye scarring and is particularly concerning if contracted during pregnancy, as it can be passed to the unborn child. Congenital toxoplasmosis has been associated with various adverse outcomes, including stillbirth, developmental delays, eye inflammation, and hearing impairment.
Ms. Goyne, who was elected to the Clarence City Council last year, recently introduced a motion that was unanimously passed, highlighting the need for a statewide cat management program in Tasmania. Despite existing cat laws implemented in 2021, Ms. Goyne contends that they are insufficient, advocating for regulations similar to those governing dogs. She supports responsible cat ownership that keeps cats within their owners’ properties to mitigate potential risks.
Peter Stronach, CEO of Landcare Tasmania, emphasizes the importance of educating cat owners about the environmental and health impacts of roaming cats. Currently, Tasmania lacks specific roaming cat laws, allowing cats to wander freely unless local governments establish cat management areas. Stronach underscores the detrimental effects of toxoplasmosis on livestock and biodiversity, urging landowners to support efforts to control roaming cats.
While the Tasmanian government has prohibited cats from certain areas, including national parks and state forests, the enforcement of cat management largely falls to local councils.
Ms. Goyne’s journey into motherhood during her term on the Clarence council, despite previous expectations, has added a personal dimension to her advocacy. Her experience highlights the importance of raising awareness about toxoplasmosis, both among pregnant women and the general public, to protect public health and preserve the environment.
