What are cats dangerous for pregnant?

During the period of gestation, the woman carefully monitors her health, does not tolerate deviations and responds to absolutely everything. It would seem what harm a fluffy pet can do in a house, because he lived here before conception. However, experts think differently and give reasoned arguments. In order not to harm the fetus in the womb, a woman should weigh absolutely everything and take appropriate measures if necessary. Let's look at the most important aspects in order so that you can make your own opinion.

The danger of cats for the expectant mother

1. Experts say that a furry pet can damage the health of the mother and the fetal development in particular. The argument for these words is toxoplasmosis. This is a disease by which an animal can infect a person. It is caused by parasites that are present in the body of birds, cats and dogs. However, this parasite can fully reproduce and exist only in the cat's body.
2. This virus is resistant to irritating factors, which means that it exists for a long time. Bacteria can live in cat feces for 2 years or more. It enters the human body through raw meat or other similar food. The disease does not carry special symptoms, infected people and animals do not even suspect an existing sore.
3. Symptoms are occasionally present, similar to a mild cold. However, for the baby in the womb this is a real threat. The virus acts on the central nervous system, slows down the formation of this system. If the child becomes infected, it is likely that congenital abnormalities of the brain or other pathologies, no less serious, will develop.
4. Often, for this reason, the fetus dies. If the cat transmitted toxoplasmosis before 23 weeks of gestation, experts recommend terminating the pregnancy if a pathology is detected. When women hear this information for the first time, they immediately grab their heads and don’t know where to put the furry pet. But do not rush.

Features of the disease

1. The above risk for the baby is possible if the expectant mother became infected for the first time during gestation or immediately before conception. In cases where a woman is aware that she was ill with toxoplasmosis long before the baby is in the womb, do not worry. You will not get sick again.
2. If in doubt, take the cat to the veterinarian and make sure that she is not sick. Naturally, go through the examination too. An analysis is made for TORCH infection in order to detect toxoplasmosis. Also bring pet feces to the laboratory. After these manipulations, the situation becomes clear, you make a decision.
3. If there is immunity to this sore, then there is no danger. If the animal is infected, and you escaped this, the situation is more complicated. Look for a pet shelter. If you decide to leave the animal, then protect yourself.

Precautionary measures

1. Unfortunately, it is worth knowing that neither the animal nor you are immune from the fact that you can get infected with toxoplasmosis. Try not to let the pet go outside so that it communicates with brothers.
2. From domestic cats, your cat can easily catch such a disease or any other infection. Remember that while carrying the baby, in no case do not kiss the cat, and each time wash your hands with soap when in contact with the animal.
3. Make sure that the pet does not climb onto the dining table. In general, pay attention to the behavior and general condition of the animal. Toxoplasmosis is manifested in the absence of appetite, with diarrhea and elevated body temperature.
4. If you notice that your four-legged friend is not feeling well, be sure to contact your veterinarian for help.In order to prevent this, you can regularly visit such a doctor for prevention. The most important thing is to entrust the cleaning of the cat's toilet to another member of the family. Do not do such things yourself.
5. Through feces, it is easiest to pick up such an infection. If you have no other choice, be aware of basic security measures. Always wear silicone gloves and clean the animal’s toilet with boiling water. Thus, a complete disinfection can be carried out.

Myths

In common people there are a sufficient number of signs that speak of pregnancy and the presence of a cat in the house. It is interesting that some of them are quite true and it is recommended to use them as recommendations.

1. Myth 1. Some believe that pregnant girls are forbidden to pick up cats. There is some truth to this, because animals are carriers of toxoplasmosis. Therefore, in any contact with a four-legged friend, be especially careful and wash your hands thoroughly with soap. If you have previously had such a disease, then you are not in danger.
2. Myth 2. It is believed that if the cat sleeps in the same pastel with a pregnant woman, then this will lead to trouble. If you believe it, then when the animal tries to lie down next to the future woman in childbirth, then something is wrong with the child. In reality, a four-legged friend simply becomes attached to a person and tries to be near, showing affection. Therefore, do not worry about this, there is nothing bad about it.
3. Myth 3. Allegedly, if the animal sleeps on the woman’s chest, then after the birth she will not have mother’s milk. It is worth noting that such an assumption is not supported by anything. The only reason you should not let your pet sleep on his chest is because of the possibility of contracting an infection. In addition, a large individual resting on its chest can deliver a lot of discomfort. Perhaps from squeezing it can harm the mammary glands.

Remember, in order not to encounter any diseases, you need to undergo an examination for both you and the animal. Follow basic precautions. Even if a four-legged friend is ill, if you follow simple rules you will not get infected. No need to listen to all kinds of fables and get rid of the animal.

Video: pregnancy and cats - vet tips