Caring For A Cat While Pregnant

Are you getting ready to welcome a baby into your home? Congratulations! Becoming a parent transforms your life in every way. The new arrival will impact all aspects of your household, including your pets. And this leads us to today’s topic: cats and pregnancy. If you are expecting, you may have heard stories about the dangers of holding a cat while pregnant. There is certainly a lot of misinformation on this subject. We’re pleased to correct the record! A neighborhood Bel Air, MD veterinarian provides some perspective below.

What Is Toxoplasmosis?

Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Most of those who are afflicted are asymptomatic. Those who do have symptoms usually have mild ones, such as nausea and vomiting. However, difficulties can occur from time to time. These can result in more serious disorders and harm important organs such as the brain, lungs, heart, eyes, and liver.

Not everyone is prone to the symptoms. Problems are most common in those with impaired immune systems. Unfortunately, it can have catastrophic consequences for unborn fetuses.

How Common is Toxoplasmosis?

It is probably far more prevalent than you realize. The parasite Toxoplasma is carried by more than 40 million Americans. That is about one in every five.

• Toxoplasma gondii parasite is a single-celled organism. Single-celled creatures include bacteria, certain algae, and protozoa.
• The Toxoplasma parasite is carried by one out of every five Americans.
• Other countries may have infection rates of up to 95%.
• One impact of toxoplasmosis on the brain is that it dulls the experience of terror. This is also observed in diseased rats. You can probably predict what happens when a mouse with a tamed fear of cats comes into contact with a hungry feline. (Spoiler: the mouse’s fate is not looking good.) Infected rats are less startled by the smell of cat urine, according to studies. In other words, Fluffy finds it easier to hunt thanks to this parasite. In exchange, she contributes by spreading it through her excrement.
• Toxoplasma gondii is America’s leading cause of death from foodborne illness.
• Parasites can be found all around the world.
• Severe toxoplasmosis can seriously harm the brain, eyes, and other organs.
• Most persons with healthy immune systems will have no symptoms or consequences.
• Immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable.
• Even if your cat is positive for Toxoplasma gondii, they are unlikely to shed infectious parasites.
• The majority of cats are asymptomatic.
• Cleaning up kitty litter is also a very efficient way to prevent spread. The cysts are not contagious for up to five days after passing through feces. As a result, regular scooping is an excellent way to prevent infection.
• Keeping your cat indoors can also help prevent exposure. Fluffy will not only stop dropping dead mice on your doorstep, but he will also help safeguard local animals.

How Do People Get Toxoplasmosis?

There are several methods to contract the parasite. One—and the one we’re focusing on—is coming into contact with an infected animal’s feces.

Other probable modes of transmission include Consuming uncooked or undercooked foods; Contact with tainted cat excrement, whether from gardening or changing the litterbox; congenital transmission from an infected mother to the fetus; organ transplants; and blood transfusions.

How Can Cats Get Toxoplasmosis?

Kitties can contract toxoplasmosis by ingesting infected small animals. This is not surprising given that cats eat mice, birds, and other tiny creatures in the wild.

The parasite is shed—or spread—through the cat’s excrement. An infected cat will expel the parasite for around two weeks, although the parasite can live for several months. It may grow in soil, water, vegetables, sandboxes, and pastures. Litterboxes and any other place where an infected cat may have defecated provide the greatest risk.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Contracting Toxoplasma gondii?

Fortunately, simple common sense measures can go a long way here.

Wear gloves when gardening or handling soil that may be contaminated with feces from wild, feral, or even loose cats, as the soil may carry toxoplasma.

If you are expecting, then ideally you would want to have someone else handle cat litter. If it is not an option, simply use gloves when changing or cleaning cat litter.

Scoop the litterbox once a day. (Automated ones can help here.)

Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water any time you come into contact with something that may have been contaminated with toxoplasma.

Basic food safety procedures are also necessary. For example, chilling meat before cooking it helps lessen the risk of illness, as can using a food thermometer to ensure it is hot enough. Wash your produce before cooking, and avoid drinking unpasteurized milk or eating raw seafood.

For further information, ask your Bel Air, MD veterinarian.

Do I Need To Get Rid Of My Cat?

We cannot emphasize this enough: there is no reason to rehome your cat. This is another incentive to keep your kitty indoors. A cat who has never been outside is inherently less likely to get toxoplasmosis than one who is continually in and out. (We’ll reserve Fluffy’s inclination to believe she’s on the wrong side of the door for another time.)

Is Toxoplasmosis A Part Of The Crazy Cat Lady Myth?

This is where things get strange. You’ve most likely heard the moniker Crazy Cat Lady. While this was originally intended to be rather condescending, many people have freely accepted the moniker. Naturally, Fluffy is unconcerned as well.

There has been a lot of uncertainty here as a result of rumors linking young toxoplasma gondii infection to schizophrenia. However, no evidence has been provided to support this claim.

Is It Safe For Me To Be Around Cats While Pregnant?

Yes, definitely. Fluffy could actually be a great source of comfort during pregnancy. She also makes an excellent snuggle partner and playmate for small children. Simply take the steps suggested above. You can also get a catproof top for your crib to keep your feline friend out. That’s it!

Keep Your Cat Healthy by Visiting Our Bel Air, MD Clinic

Is your kitty companion overdue for an exam? Please contact us, your local Bel Air, MD pet hospital, at any time. We’re here to assist!