Petting a cat could double your risk of schizophrenia: Research
Owning a cat may potentially double the risk of developing schizophrenia-related conditions, an analysis of 17 studies stated. Researchers link this to the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, often carried by cats. It infiltrates the central nervous system and has been found to influence neurotransmitters, causing personality changes, psychotic symptoms, and neurological disorders like schizophrenia.