Risks from Pets During Pregnancy
Pets bring a lot of joy, but they can also carry some risks for you and your baby during pregnancy. Your immune system is a bit weaker when you’re pregnant, so it’s easier for infections to take hold.Zoonotic infections pass from animals to humans through contact with their saliva, faeces, or even dust from their living spaces.
These are the main ones to know about:
- Toxoplasmosis: This is a big one for cat owners. It’s caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii, which cats can carry in their faeces. If you get infected during the third trimester, there’s a 60 per cent chance it could pass to your baby. This can sometimes lead to problems later in life, like issues with the eyes or brain.
- Salmonella: Reptiles, birds, and even some farm animals can carry this bacterium.
- Physical risks: Pets can sometimes behave unpredictably. A playful dog might jump on your belly, or a scratch from a cat could get infected if not cleaned properly.
Cats and Pregnancy
Cats make lovely companions, but you need to be careful about toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.It doesn’t cause much trouble for healthy adults, but it can harm your baby if you get it while pregnant.
Follow these tips to stay safe:
- Avoid litter box duties: Ask someone else in your household to clean the litter box. If you must do it, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water right after.
- Keep your cat indoors: Indoor cats are less likely to carry the parasite since they don’t hunt or eat raw meat. Avoid stray cats and don’t adopt a new cat during pregnancy.
- Feed safe food: Give your cat only commercial cat food. Don’t feed raw or undercooked meat.
Dogs and Pregnancy
Dogs are generally safe to have around during pregnancy if they’re healthy, vaccinated, and well-behaved. Still, their energy and habits might need a little adjusting before the baby arrives.These are some simple ways to get your dog ready:
- Obedience training: Brush up on commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” This helps prevent jumping or rough play that could hurt you or the baby. Practice these at home regularly.
- Vet check-up: Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are current, including rabies, and that they’re free from fleas and ticks. Ask your vet about safe pest control options for a baby-friendly home.
- Set boundaries: Decide early where your dog is and isn’t allowed. If the nursery is off-limits, use a baby gate. If you plan to allow them in, let them explore while you’re there so they adjust to the new space.
Birds and Pregnancy
Birds can sometimes carry infections like Salmonella, Chlamydia, or Campylobacter. During pregnancy, these infections can be risky and may increase the chance of miscarriage or premature birth.Here’s what to do:
- Vet check-up: Have your bird checked by a vet before pregnancy to make sure it’s healthy. Follow any advice they give on preventing harmful germs.
- Avoid cleaning cages: Ask someone else to take care of cleaning the cage and handling food or water bowls.
- Practice good hygiene: Anyone who touches the bird or its cage should wash their hands well with soap and water afterwards.
Farm Animals and Pregnancy
If you live near or visit a farm, it’s important to be careful. Farm animals can carry bacteria like Listeria, Salmonella, or Campylobacter, which may cause serious infections or even miscarriage during pregnancy.These are some ways to protect yourself:
- Limit contact: Try not to touch farm animals while pregnant. If you do, wash your hands well straight after.
- Choose pasteurised products: Stick to pasteurised milk and dairy products to avoid Listeria from farm animals.
- Avoid unhygienic areas: Stay away from places with poor hygiene, as these increase infection risks.
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FAQs on How to Stay Safe Around Pets During Pregnancy
- Can pet dogs sense pregnancy changes?
Yes, dogs can detect hormonal and scent changes during pregnancy. They may show it by being more protective, clingy, or attentive. - Can pet fish tanks cause any issues during pregnancy?
Pet fish tanks are generally safe during pregnancy if you avoid heavy lifting and wash your hands well after contact. The main risks come from germs in tank water and the physical strain of cleaning.