Pregnancy and cat litter...

I read that it can be dangerous to clean out the litter trays when you are pregnant. Has anyone else come across this and if so how did you deal with it? If I wore disposable gloves and washed my hands thoroughly afterwards with an antibacterial soap would that be OK?

 

Yes, it can by dangerous the problem is toxoplasmosis a parasite infection that can be transmitted through the feces. There is some information on it here.

 

I talked to my doctor about this while I was pregnant. She said as long as I wore gloves I could safely clean out the kitty box. I first thought it had to do with breathing in the odors but that was not the case. You should be totally fine magickat as long as you always wear your gloves. Also, congrats on the pregnancy!

 

Thanks guys, some great advice there, and thanks for the good wishes Amy

 

Congratulations, Magickat!

You can get tested for toxoplasmosis antibodies. If you have the IgG antibody, you have already fought off toxoplasmosis successfully and, from what I can find, your immune system will protect your baby.

 

Congratulations, Magickat! There is a whole lot of info here I didn't know about yet either. I knew there were dangers involved, but not exactly what they were (touching the litter, inhaling the odours, etc). I am glad that there are so many people here who do know so you'll get some solid advice.

 

Yes there is certainly a lot of good advice here and it seems that with sensible precautions I should be fine. Thanks again to everyone for your helpful comments.

 

Truth is I rather not have a cat when I get pregnant, because some kitties actually like to dig in their own... well, you know! My Bob doesn't do that, but I think that I'll let him in my mom's place if he is still around when I get pregnant. Just to be 100% safe. I'll get him back once I give birth.