text: How common is toxoplasmosis in pregnancy
  True or False: Cats Should Be Avoided by Pregnant Women
  If you've ever wondered if it's true those cats' feces might
  cause birth abnormalities, here's the startling answer: yes and no.
  Cats, it turns out, discharge a parasite in their feces that
  can harm a fetus. However, this parasite can be acquired in a variety of ways
  other than through cats. There are many ways to prevent this parasite from
  hurting a fetus, so expectant mothers don't have to worry about their babies'
  health if they come into contact with cats.
  of the Health Claim
  Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection caused by a specific
  parasite that causes only minor symptoms or remains unnoticed in the majority
  of humans and animals. After consuming affected small animals such as birds or
  rodents, cats spread the parasite through their excrement. While the virus has
  no effect on the cats, the parasites they release can be harmful to pregnant
  When a pregnant woman cleans the litter box of an infected
  cat, she is exposed to the parasite. If the mother touches her lips after
  coming into contact with the parasite, she risks becoming infected, putting her
  fetus at risk of major difficulties at birth or later in life.
  The parasite can cause serious eye infections or even
  blindness before or during birth.
  Any cat that is allowed outside or is fed raw or undercooked
  meat may be infected with the parasite. Any contaminated excrement from
  infected cats can endanger a woman's pregnancy.
  to the Health Claim
  Toxoplasmosis can be transferred by tainted meat as well as
  cat feces. By consuming infected raw or undercooked meat, a person is just as
  likely, if not more, to get the infection. Even handling the meat and then forgetting
  to wash your hands might spread the virus.
  Surprisingly, if a woman develops the infection before
  becoming pregnant, she becomes immune and will not pass it on to her fetus. If
  a woman has been exposed to the parasite, a blood test can prove it.
  Most women have a low probability of catching the disease
  through their cat. Indoor cats eating professionally prepared cat food, for
  example, have a very minimal risk of contracting the disease.
  If a woman owns a cat, she does not need to avoid it or give
  up her beloved pet. A few easy precautions, including as extra caution when
  cleaning the litter box or avoiding it altogether, can help to prevent the
  parasite's spread. If you're expecting a child, enlist the help of another
  person to clean the litter box. If you must do it yourself, wear disposable
  gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
  While some cat excrement might cause serious or even fatal
  difficulties in a growing fetus, pregnant women do not need to stay away from
  cats entirely. Toxoplasmosis risk is much reduced if you avoid using the litter
  Additionally, expecting mothers should exercise caution
  while handling raw meat as well as cat feces. If pregnant women eat raw or
  undercooked meat or handle raw meat without washing their hands right away,
  they are more likely to contract toxoplasmosis.
  Fluffy doesn't have to pack her bags when the happy news of impending arrival is announced. Keep her inside, feed her only premade cat
  food, and do your best to look after her.
  Post a Comment