How do you prevent toxoplasmosis in dogs?

Keeping your dog safe from toxoplasmosis starts with small, daily steps that fit right into your routine. Most cases come from contact with infected feces—like when your pup sniffs around a cat’s litter box or rolls in soil where stray cats have been. Always keep your dog on a leash during walks, especially in parks or neighborhood green spaces, and steer clear of areas where you see cat waste. It’s also smart to clean up your own dog’s poop right away, since even uninfected waste can attract other animals that might carry the parasite.

What your dog eats matters a lot too. Never feed them raw or undercooked meat—this includes table scraps like rare steak or uncooked ground turkey. In many places, there are guidelines for pet food safety that require commercial diets to be heat-treated, which kills toxoplasmosis cysts. Stick to trusted brands, and avoid giving your dog raw meat treats, even if they seem like a healthy choice. If you make homemade meals for your pup, always cook meat thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Your yard and home need a little extra attention to keep toxoplasmosis at bay. Rake up leaves and debris regularly, since these can hide cat feces or contaminated soil. If you have outdoor plants, wear gloves when gardening and keep your dog out of the area until you’re done—this stops them from digging in soil that might have parasites. If you have a cat at home, clean the litter box every day (the parasite takes 1-5 days to become infectious) and let someone else do it if you’re pregnant, since humans can get sick too.

Regular vet visits are non-negotiable for prevention. Your vet can talk to you about whether a toxoplasmosis test is right for your dog, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors or have eaten raw meat in the past. They might also recommend keeping your dog’s vaccinations and parasite preventatives up to date—while there’s no vaccine for toxoplasmosis, other meds can stop related issues like intestinal worms that might weaken your dog’s immune system. Always follow your vet’s advice, since they know the specific risks in your area.

At the end of the day, preventing toxoplasmosis is about being proactive, not stressed. It’s just another part of loving your dog—making sure they stay happy, healthy, and by your side for years. By sticking to these simple habits, you’re not just protecting your pup; you’re keeping your whole family safe too. And that’s the kind of care that makes all the little efforts worth it.