Jammu and Kashmir has seen a sharp surge in pet ownership, with cats – especially Persian and exotic breeds – becoming increasingly popular.
The boom has led to a rise in pet shops, but health experts warn of growing risks linked to toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by parasites found in cat faeces.
Dr M. Saleem Khan of Government Medical College Srinagar told ETV Bharat that the infection can cause headaches, rashes, fever, and, in pregnant women, miscarriages or developmental harm to unborn children.
Capital Srinagar’s Central Veterinary Hospital treats about 250 pets daily, 90 per cent of them cats.
Veterinarians urge better hygiene, while pet owners say cats are low-maintenance and ideal companions despite the concerns.
