We learned our veterinary parasitology class that it was "ridiculous" to think that ferrets could transmit toxoplasmosis to humans. Now, in my vast knowledge of the subject (LOL- I am only a second year student) I would never say never. Cats are the definative host for toxo. and therefore are the only animals in which the parasite can reproduce. That is why cleaning cat litter boxes is a threat to pregnant women. Let it be known however, that most people who test positive for toxo. aquired it through poorly cooked pork.(Not through cat feces) If you already have antibody to toxo, then you don't have to worry about transmitting it to your fetus. A good portion of the population is already exposed and don't know it becasue it isn't a problem unless you are pregnant. Getting your blood tested might releive your anxiety. AS for ferrets, they are not the definative host. If your ferret got toxo., it can not replicate inside your ferret. If however your ferret eats cat feces, I would think it would be possible for the toxo to go through the GI tract and into the feces. Then you would be at risk cleaning the litter box. Very unlikely! And in addition, toxo is not infective until hours after it is excreted in the feces. If the litter box is cleaned frequently there shouldn't be a problem. Plus wearing gloves is a good precaution too. I can't remember who asked the question now, but if you are pregnant and making a descision, good luck. ********************************** Shelley Straight Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine [log in to unmask] ********************************** [Moderator's note: Previous posts on the FML from vets have indicated that although cases of toxoplasmosis in ferrets is exceedingly rare, it *has* happened. At least once, anyhow. BIG] [Posted in FML issue 2265]