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What Is Toxoplasmosis and Why It Matters in Pregnancy
Toxoplasmosis is caused by a single-celled parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. In most adults, the infection is mild or even unnoticed. But when a pregnant person becomes infected for the first time, the parasite can cross the placenta and affect the developing baby, a condition known as congenital toxoplasmosis.How it works
- Cats are the definitive host for Toxoplasma gondii, meaning the parasite completes its life cycle inside their intestines.
- Infected cats shed microscopic eggs (oocysts) in their faeces for a short period after first exposure.
- These oocysts become infectious after 24–48 hours in the environment and can survive in soil or litter for months.
- Humans usually get infected not directly by touching cats, but by handling contaminated soil, litter, raw meat, or unwashed vegetables that contain oocysts.
Why It Matters During Pregnancy
In pregnancy, a first-time infection can cause serious outcomes for the baby, depending on the trimester:- First trimester: Risk of transmission is lower (~10–15%), but effects can be severe (miscarriage, brain or eye damage).
- Second trimester: Transmission risk rises (~25%), with potential neurological or vision problems.
- Third trimester: Transmission can reach 60–80%, though symptoms in the baby may appear later in life (hearing loss, developmental delays).
How You Might Be Exposed (and What Actually Doesn’t Cause Infection)
Pregnant women are often advised to “stay away from cats.” But the infection route is not the cat itself. It’s contact with cat faeces, raw meat, or contaminated soil. Here’s what you should know:Common routes of infection
- Handling cat litter without gloves or washing hands afterwards.
- Eating undercooked or raw meat, especially pork, lamb, or goat.
- Touching soil or sand (like in gardens) where cats may have defecated.
- Eating unwashed fruits or vegetables grown in contaminated soil.
- Petting, cuddling, or sleeping near your cat.
- Being scratched or bitten by a cat.
- Sharing your living space, provided the litter box is cleaned safely.
Testing and Diagnosis
If you’re pregnant and own a cat, your gynaecologist may suggest a toxoplasmosis blood test early in pregnancy. This test measures two antibodies:- IgG antibodies indicate past infection and immunity.
- IgM antibodies indicate a recent or current infection.
In suspected recent infections, your doctor may repeat tests over a few weeks or order avidity testing to determine the recentness of the infection. If infection is confirmed, treatment with antiparasitic medications, such as spiramycin, may reduce the transmission risk to the baby (only under medical supervision).
Safe Cat Care Practices During Pregnancy
You can continue keeping your cat during pregnancy by following practical precautions that prevent contact with the parasite.Litter box hygiene:
- Avoid cleaning litter yourself if possible. Ask a partner or family member to do it.
- If you must clean it, wear disposable gloves and a mask, and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water afterwards.
- Clean the litter box daily, as oocysts need 24 hours to become infectious.
- Use boiling water or diluted bleach to disinfect the litter box weekly.
- Keep the litter box indoors and away from kitchens or food areas.
- Wash your hands before eating or cooking, especially after gardening or handling raw meat.
- Always cook meat thoroughly until no pink areas remain.
- Rinse raw vegetables and fruits well, even if they appear clean.
- Wear gloves when gardening or touching soil.
- Keep your cat indoors to prevent it from hunting and eating raw prey that might carry the parasite.
- Schedule a vet visit to ensure your cat is healthy and up to date on vaccines.
- Avoid adopting new cats or strays during pregnancy, as their infection history is unknown.
- Don’t feed your cat raw or undercooked meat.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Call your doctor if you experience symptoms such as mild fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, or fatigue, especially if you have recently handled raw meat or soil. Though these symptoms are rare and mild, timely blood testing can rule out or confirm infection.If toxoplasmosis is diagnosed, your doctor may recommend:
- Regular ultrasound scans to check fetal growth.
- Specialist referral for further management or treatment if needed.
Remember: being cautious is wise; being fearful isn’t necessary. Your baby’s safety and your pet’s companionship can coexist.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Keeping a Cat During Pregnancy: Safety Guidelines Every Pet Owner Should Know
- Can I get toxoplasmosis from touching my cat?
No. You can’t get it by petting or cuddling your cat. The parasite is only shed in cat faeces for a short period and isn’t found on fur. - Should I give away my cat now that I’m pregnant?
Not at all. With safe litter-handling, cooked food, and basic hygiene, you can keep your cat. Removing a healthy pet is unnecessary. - What if I test positive for toxoplasmosis antibodies?
If you have a past infection (IgG positive, IgM negative), you’re immune and not at risk of passing it to your baby. Only a new infection during pregnancy is concerning. - Is it safe for my cat to sleep in the same room?
Yes, as long as the litter box is kept clean and in another area. Wash your hands regularly and maintain general hygiene.
