Is It Safe To Change The Cat's Litter Box While I'm Pregnant?

Is is safe to change the cat's litter box while I'm pregnant is one of the most common questions that is asked by newly pregnant women. It is best if someone else can do it for you while you are pregnant, however, if that is not an option, you can change the cat's litter box providing you take the correct precautions.

The fear is from a parasite that cat's carry called toxoplasmosis, and it is passed in their feces. However, the fact is, you are more likely to get this parasite by eating raw or undercooked meat or digging in a garden than you are from your cat.

The CDC (Center For Disease Control) reports that an estimated 400-4000 cases of congenital toxoplasmosis occur each year in the Unites States. Of the 750 deaths, 50% of those deaths are believed to be caused by eating contaminated meat.

Toxoplasma is transmitted by either eating contaminated meat, eating unwashed fruits or vegetables, and by exposure to cat litter or soil from gardening where it is possible that a cat may have taken a poop. The last one is a newly infected pregnant woman passing the infection to her unborn fetus.

Toxoplasma is most common in France, and least common in the United States.

To answer the question: Is is safe to change the cat's litter box while I'm pregnant, the answer is yes providing you use these precautions.

If you have to change the cat box wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water when you are finished. Do not feed your cat raw meat, feed your cat only commercial cat food in a bag or can. Keep you cat inside, and do not handle stray cats, especially kittens, if you happen to do any of these immediately wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. It is also a good idea not to get a new cat until after you have your baby.

Do not let people scare you about your cat and your unborn baby. Being pregnant, you will learn, that you can still do your normal activities, you just have to take precautions and use good judgment. People have good intentions, but learn to politely listen, and if you are concerned come to the internet for your answers

Paula Snyder is a mom, business owner and author.

Did you know 90% of fears about pregnancy is lack of correct information? Be an exception to the rule, by keeping yourself informed . Find out everything that you need to know while you are pregnant in my complete pregnancy guide report.