Share

Cats and your unborn child

If you're pregnant, you're probably already aware that your cat may be carrying a parasite that could harm your foetus.

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by exposure to the toxoplasma gondii parasite, which cats can pick up from eating infected prey or meat, or by coming into contact with infected faeces. In adult humans, toxoplasmosis usually only causes swollen glands, but if a pregnant woman comes into contact with the parasite, it can lead to foetal hydroencephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or lesions in the retina or brain.

But veterinarians say it's probably not necessary to get rid of a beloved pet to protect your baby's health. The School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California at Davis offers this advice:

If you're pregnant, avoid all contact with cat faeces, keep cats indoors, feed them a diet of commercial food, and cook meat to at least 67 degrees Celsius. Also, you should wear rubber gloves when gardening in outdoor soil that may be contaminated by cat faeces, and always wash produce thoroughly.

(Liesl Powell, Health24)

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE