Australian scientists have found that owners of domestic cats are putting their health at risk. And this concerns not the elderly, but young pet owners.
According to the latest data, having a cat in the house doubles the risk of developing schizophrenia.
This is the conclusion reached by researchers from the University of Queensland.
Scientists had to study the results of 17 previously conducted studies. In total, the work affected 11 countries, including the USA and Britain.
Results of the work
According to experts, having a domestic cat increases the risk of developing schizophrenia in young owners by approximately 2 times compared to those who do not have a cat.
Symptoms of the disease appear at the age of 16-30 years.
What are the reasons?
Scientists believe the cause lies in the common parasite Toxoplasma gondii.
It is capable of penetrating the human body, for which any contact is sufficient.
The pest then affects the neurotransmitters of the brain.
Disruptions in the functioning of these biologically active chemicals cause personality changes, mental disorders, and can ultimately lead to schizophrenia.
