Return
Can I Keep My Cat Now That I'm Pregnant?
I’m pregnant and have always been a cat lover. But I’ve heard that cats can cause problems for a fetus. Is it safe to have a cat during pregnancy, or do I have to get rid of my beloved pet?
- Cyndy
You can keep, and continue to cuddle with, your friendly feline — just don’t change your precious pet’s litter box. An infection called toxoplasmosis can be spread through soiled cat litter boxes and can cause serious problems in a fetus, including prematurity, poor growth, and severe eye and brain damage. A pregnant woman who becomes infected often has no symptoms but can still pass the infection on to her developing baby.
But avoiding the infection is pretty easy — just have someone else change the litter box, making sure to clean it thoroughly, then washing his or her hands well afterward. What better reason than pregnancy to get out of an often-unpleasant job!
For more information, check out these articles.
A Week-by-Week Pregnancy Calendar
Toxoplasmosis
10 Things That Might Surprise You About Being Pregnant
Reviewed by: Email us.
We regret that we can't reply to any email inquiry. Although we can't reply personally, you may see your question posted to this page in the future. If you're looking for medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment, consult your doctor or other qualified medical professional. If this is an emergency, contact emergency services in your area.