A novel research has unveiled that living with cats as a child can pose a risk of developing mental disorders. Study researchers think that a single-celled organism called Toxoplasma gondii is the reason behind causing problem to humans.

It loves to be on cats and that is how it poses a risk to pet owners. If it is ingested by humans, then it can lead to toxoplasmosis.

The disease is a lifelong infection that can lead to many psychiatric problems. In many studies, the risk has been documented. The research published in the Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica has found a strong link between toxoplasmosis and schizophrenia.

The researchers have compared findings of two previous studies to know the link between cat ownership in childhood with development of schizophrenia later in life.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, Toxoplasma gondii is considered to be one of the most prevalent parasites infecting around 60 million Americans. The parasite can also be found in many mammal and birds, but with cats, the parasite seems to have unique relationship.

One of the main reasons behind the same is that the parasite can only reproduce inside cat's body. Study researchers said that humans can be affected by the disease accidentally, like ingesting contaminated soil, changing cat's litter box.

Scientists said that the parasite becomes dormant in the body. But pregnant women should be cautious as it increases risk of miscarriage and birth defects.