toxoplasmosis

Question
My question is concerning toxoplasmosis.  I have a cat who is almost 5 years old.  I was tested 21/2 years ago and I do not carry the antibodies to fight it.  Even though she is an inside cat and probably doesn't carry it, being pregnant with my second child, it is a concern of mine.  I have my husband change the litter box, which is not a problem.  My question concerns the anal gland secretions.  She has never had a problem with clearing out her glands.  The only problem is that we never know when or where she will empty them.  Sometimes its only twice a year, sometimes it's twice a month....it can happen while she is in your lap and your petting her....She has gotten my clothes before (which is not the easiest thing to wash out.) She has jumped off my sholder into my lap before and gotten me from shoulder to wrist.  It is more of an inconvenience for us than it is for her, which is one of the reasons we havn't had them removed. I am wondering if toxoplasmosis can be transmitted through these secretions.  I hate to have anything done to my cat that isn't completely necessary, but if this CAN be transmitted through the secretions, then i need to have her tested for it, or have her glands removed. If this can be transmitted through the anal glands, is there a blood test that she can take that will show if she has it or not?? Thank you for any info you may have.  

Answer
Hi Amy!  Congrats on your upcoming baby!  You must be so excited!
Toxoplasmosis CAN be contracted through the anal gland secretions.  It is definitely a good thing to have your husband empty out the litterbox anyway...reguardless if she is positive for toxoplasmosis or not.  It would be very unlikely for her to be carrying Toxoplasmosis if she is an indoor cat.  A simple fecal test ($15) by your veterinarian will be able to comfirm whether or not she is carrying it.  
I hope this helps and congrats again!
Hilary