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Toxoplasmosis (Parasitic infection with Toxoplasma species) in cats

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: General/Whole body

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 03.12.2025

When to visit the vet?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Toxoplasmosis is a parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. caused by the single-celled organism Toxoplasma gondii, which occurs in cats as definitive hostsDefinitive hosts are the organisms in which a parasite or pathogen completes its reproductive cycle. Unlike intermediate hosts, which only harbor certain developmental stages of the parasite, definitive hosts are necessary for the parasite’s reproduction..

The most important facts at a glance

Toxoplasmosis in cats is caused by the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. Toxoplasma gondii, which multiplies within cells and damages the host tissue. Cats are the definitive hostsDefinitive hosts are the organisms in which a parasite or pathogen completes its reproductive cycle. Unlike intermediate hosts, which only harbor certain developmental stages of the parasite, definitive hosts are necessary for the parasite's reproduction. in which the sexual reproduction of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. takes place. The infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. usually occurs through eating infected meat or contact with oocystsOocysts are resistant, dormant forms of certain parasites, especially protozoa, that can survive in the environment. They are an important stage in the life cycle of some parasites that can cause diseases such as coccidiosis in dogs and cats. from the feces of other cats. Symptoms range from loss of appetite and diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. to severe neurological disorders such as ataxia and seizures. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is often difficult because many cats are asymptomaticAsymptomatic means that there are no recognizable symptoms of a disease. An animal can have a disease or infection without showing visible signs, which can make diagnosis and treatment more difficult. and the clinical signs can be nonspecific. Serological tests and the detection of oocystsOocysts are resistant, dormant forms of certain parasites, especially protozoa, that can survive in the environment. They are an important stage in the life cycle of some parasites that can cause diseases such as coccidiosis in dogs and cats. in the feces are common diagnostic methods. Treatment usually includes antibiotics such as clindamycin, supported by symptom relief. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the cat’s health and the severity of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. measures include a controlled diet without raw meat, restriction of outdoor access, and regular cleaning of cat litter boxes. Research focuses on the development of vaccines and the improvement of diagnostics to reduce transmission to other animals and humans. Overall, early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment are crucial to protect the health of cats and minimize the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Causes

Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. that belongs to the group of sporozoa. These organisms are known for their ability to multiply within cells, damaging host tissue in the process. The parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. has a complex life cycle that includes both intermediate and definitive hostsDefinitive hosts are the organisms in which a parasite or pathogen completes its reproductive cycle. Unlike intermediate hosts, which only harbor certain developmental stages of the parasite, definitive hosts are necessary for the parasite's reproduction.. Cats are the only definitive hostsDefinitive hosts are the organisms in which a parasite or pathogen completes its reproductive cycle. Unlike intermediate hosts, which only harbor certain developmental stages of the parasite, definitive hosts are necessary for the parasite's reproduction. in which sexual reproduction of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. takes place.

The infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. usually occurs when a cat eats infected meat containing cysts of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans., or when it comes into contact with oocystsOocysts are resistant, dormant forms of certain parasites, especially protozoa, that can survive in the environment. They are an important stage in the life cycle of some parasites that can cause diseases such as coccidiosis in dogs and cats. that are excreted by other infected cats via their feces. The oocystsOocysts are resistant, dormant forms of certain parasites, especially protozoa, that can survive in the environment. They are an important stage in the life cycle of some parasites that can cause diseases such as coccidiosis in dogs and cats. are very resistantResistant means being insensitive to a substance, drug, or treatment. In dogs and cats, resistance can refer to the ineffectiveness of antibiotics against certain bacterial strains or the insensitivity of parasites to certain pesticides. in the environment and can survive for several months.

In the intermediate hosts, which can also include humans, the parasite reproduces asexually and forms tissue cysts that can persist in various organs, especially in the brain and muscles. In cats, the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. often leads to the shedding of oocystsOocysts are resistant, dormant forms of certain parasites, especially protozoa, that can survive in the environment. They are an important stage in the life cycle of some parasites that can cause diseases such as coccidiosis in dogs and cats. in the feces, which contributes to the further spread of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans..

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

Many cats show no clinical symptoms after infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. with Toxoplasma gondii and remain asymptomaticAsymptomatic means that there are no recognizable symptoms of a disease. An animal can have a disease or infection without showing visible signs, which can make diagnosis and treatment more difficult. carriers. However, in cats with a weakened immune system or in young kittens, the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can lead to serious health problems.

The most common symptoms in diseased cats include fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. These non-specific symptoms can easily be confused with other diseases. In more severe cases, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, neurological symptoms such as tremors or convulsions, and ocular inflammation may occur.

The symptoms can vary depending on the affected organ system. For example, involvement of the lungs can lead to respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, while infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. of the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. causes neurological disorders. If the digestive tract is involved, Vomiting and DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. may occur.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of toxoplasmosis in cats is challenging because many animals are asymptomaticAsymptomatic means that there are no recognizable symptoms of a disease. An animal can have a disease or infection without showing visible signs, which can make diagnosis and treatment more difficult. and the clinical signs are often non-specific. A combination of clinical examination, lab tests, and imaging procedures is necessary to make an accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

Serological tests that detect antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii in the blood are a commonly used diagnostic tool. A positive antibody test indicates that the cat has come into contact with the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. at some point in its life, but does not provide information about whether the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is currently active.

In some cases, the detection of oocystsOocysts are resistant, dormant forms of certain parasites, especially protozoa, that can survive in the environment. They are an important stage in the life cycle of some parasites that can cause diseases such as coccidiosis in dogs and cats. in the feces can be helpful, although this is only possible in the acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. phase of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. when the cat is shedding oocystsOocysts are resistant, dormant forms of certain parasites, especially protozoa, that can survive in the environment. They are an important stage in the life cycle of some parasites that can cause diseases such as coccidiosis in dogs and cats.. Since the shedding is often only temporary, this test is not always reliable.

Additional diagnostic procedures such as X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. or ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. examinations can be performed to assess organ damage. If involvement of the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. is suspected, cerebrospinal fluidCerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colorless liquid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. It acts as a shock absorber and is involved in regulating the chemical environment of the CNS (central nervous system). examinations can also be performed.

Therapy

The therapy for toxoplasmosis in cats usually involves administering antibiotics that are effective against the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans.. The most commonly used antibiotic is clindamycin, which inhibits the multiplication of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans..

In some cases, the combination of clindamycin with other medications such as pyrimethamine or sulfadiazine may be necessary, especially if the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is severe or the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. is affected. The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. usually lasts several weeks, depending on the severity of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

In addition to drug therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. treatment may be necessary to alleviate the symptoms and promote the cat’s recovery. This includes fluid therapy for the treatment of dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse., pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain..

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for cats with toxoplasmosis depends on various factors, including the cat’s age, health status, and the extent of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Many cats can recover completely with the right treatment, especially if the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is detected early.

In cats with severe infections or those who already have a weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. may be worse. In such cases, the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can be life-threatening, especially if it affects the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. or the lungs.

Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. are crucial to ensure the best chances of recovery. Even with successful treatment, cats may continue to be carriers of the parasite, which increases the risk of renewed shedding of oocysts.

Prevention

To minimize the risk of toxoplasmosis infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in cats, several preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. measures can be taken. One of the most important measures is to control the diet. Cats should not be given raw or undercooked meat, as it may contain Toxoplasma cysts. Instead, only commercially prepared cat food that has been safely processed should be fed.

Another important step for preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is to control the cat’s outdoor access. Cats that spend a lot of time outdoors have a higher risk of catching prey animals such as mice or birds that may be infected with Toxoplasma. It is advisable to restrict outdoor access as much as possible or keep the cats indoors.

Regular cleaning practices are also crucial. Cat litter boxes should be cleaned daily to prevent the proliferation of Toxoplasma oocysts that are excreted in the feces. It is important to wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly to avoid transmission to humans.

In addition, regular veterinary examinations should be performed to monitor the cat’s general health and detect possible infections early. Through these measures, the risk of toxoplasmosis infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in cats can be significantly reduced.

Outlook on current research

Research on toxoplasmosis in cats has made significant progress in recent years, particularly with regard to the development of improved diagnostic methods and potential treatment options. Scientists are focusing on better understanding the life cycles of the pathogenA pathogen is a microorganism or virus that can cause disease in its host. Pathogens include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites., Toxoplasma gondii, in order to identify potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited therapeutically. One focus is on exploring the immune system of cats to determine why some cats become more severely ill than others. Progress has been made in identifying certain genetic factors that may influence the susceptibility of cats to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Another significant area of research is the development of vaccines. Although there is currently no approved vaccineA vaccine is a substance that stimulates the immune system to develop immunity against specific pathogens without causing the disease itself. Vaccines may contain weakened or inactivated pathogens, toxoids, or recombinant antigens. for toxoplasmosis in cats, scientists are working to develop vaccines that could reduce the risk of transmission of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. to other animals and humans. This research is promising as it has the potential to not only protect cats but also improve public health by reducing the risk of zoonotic transmission.

In addition, efforts are also being made to improve education and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. Researchers are investigating the effectiveness of various preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies, such as the role of diet and environment, to minimize the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Work is also underway to improve communication between veterinarians and cat owners to increase awareness and knowledge about toxoplasmosis. This includes the development of information campaigns that focus on the simple steps that cat owners can take to reduce the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Overall, ongoing research promises to deepen the understanding of toxoplasmosis and develop new methods to combat and prevent this widespread infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. By combining basic research and applied studies, scientists hope to develop effective strategies that can have a positive impact on the health of cats and humans.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is Toxoplasmosis? Toxoplasmosis is an infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. disease caused by the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. Toxoplasma gondii. Cats are the definitive hostsDefinitive hosts are the organisms in which a parasite or pathogen completes its reproductive cycle. Unlike intermediate hosts, which only harbor certain developmental stages of the parasite, definitive hosts are necessary for the parasite's reproduction. of this parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans., but other animals and humans can also become infected. The infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. usually occurs through the ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems. of infected prey or through Contact with infected feces.
How can cats transmit toxoplasmosis? Cats can shed the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. in their feces, especially when they are first infected. The oocystsOocysts are resistant, dormant forms of certain parasites, especially protozoa, that can survive in the environment. They are an important stage in the life cycle of some parasites that can cause diseases such as coccidiosis in dogs and cats. that the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. produces in the feces can survive and spread in the environment for several months under favorable conditions. Other animals and humans can become infected if they come into Contact with these oocysts.
What symptoms does a cat with toxoplasmosis show? Many cats show no obvious symptoms, but may develop Fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, and respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress. In severe cases, neurological symptoms such as seizures or coordination problems may occur. Because the symptoms are variable, a veterinary examination is important to confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..
How is toxoplasmosis diagnosed in cats? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through a combination of clinical symptoms, serological tests that detect antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii, and sometimes imaging procedures. A veterinarian may order blood tests to confirm the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and determine the cat’s infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. status.
Can toxoplasmosis be treated? Yes, toxoplasmosis can be treated with specific antibiotics that fight the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans.. The treatment is particularly important for cats with severe symptoms or for those who are immunocompromised. It is important to carry out the entire treatment under veterinary supervision to ensure that the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is successfully controlled.
How can I prevent my cat from getting toxoplasmosis? To minimize the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., cats should not be fed raw food, and access to prey should be restricted. Regular veterinary check-ups and hygiene practices, such as regularly cleaning the litter box, are also important. Cats should be kept indoors to avoid contact with infected animals.
Is toxoplasmosis dangerous for humans? Toxoplasmosis can be dangerous for humans, especially pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. In pregnant women, a primaryPrimary refers to the first or original cause of a disease or condition, as opposed to secondary causes or symptoms that develop from it. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can lead to miscarriages or birth defects. Humans can become infected through contact with cat feces, consumption of undercooked meat, or contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. food.
Can my cat infect me with toxoplasmosis? Although cats can shed oocystsOocysts are resistant, dormant forms of certain parasites, especially protozoa, that can survive in the environment. They are an important stage in the life cycle of some parasites that can cause diseases such as coccidiosis in dogs and cats., direct transmission from cat feces to humans is relatively rare if good hygiene measures are followed. The risk can be minimized by regularly cleaning the litter box and washing hands after contact with cats.
Is it safe to keep a cat during pregnancy? Yes, with the right precautions, it is safe to keep a cat during pregnancy. However, pregnant women should avoid cleaning the litter box or wear gloves while doing so and wash their hands thoroughly. Regular veterinary check-ups for your cat can also minimize the risk.
What should I do if my cat has toxoplasmosis? If your cat is diagnosed with toxoplasmosis, you should work closely with your veterinarian to develop a treatment plan and monitor the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Follow all medication instructions and ensure good hygiene to prevent the spread of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans..