I have 3 pet guinea pigs. If I get pregnant can I still have them and clean their cage?Is it harmful? I am worried about the ammonia (urine) in the air.
My husband and I are going to start a family - I know pregnant women should not be around cats, but what about guinea pigs? The vet says it is fine. However, the March of Dimes says you should stay away from all rodents, including guinea pigs as it can be harmful to the unborn baby. Will I be able to clean the cage with gloves and a mask...or do I need to stay away completely?
2006-08-15 15:51:25 · 8 answers · asked by Smiles1 1 in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
Good thing I read the whole question, started to think you were going to blame the guinnea pig. If you don't feel comfortable, don't do it.
2006-08-15 15:57:25 · answer #1 · answered by xtowgrunt 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Actually, guinea pigs are no longer considered rodents. It's still a common misconception. They were originally classified as a rodent, simply because their teeth never stop growing. With any animal (including cats) there are safety measures that will protect you while pregnant.
Wear gloves when cleaning the cage or litter box. If you want to be extra careful, wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. The whole "cats are bad while your pregnant" thing is not true if you're cautious and sanitary.
2006-08-15 16:20:24 · answer #2 · answered by dhalia_1977 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I had guinea pigs during all my pregnancies and everything was fine. If you clean out the dirty part of their cage everyday, the ammonia should not be very strong. i would use gloves for sanitary reasons anyway. Wash your hands after touching any animals. Guinea pigs are fairly clean animals and do not carry diseases which affect humans.
2006-08-16 16:00:34 · answer #3 · answered by ppqppq10 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I guess this is all that I could find about the dangers of contracting infections when pregnant women clean a cat litter box, gardens or eat raw eggs or meat. It's worth checking this site if you're planning to get pregnant and start a family. It will really give you an insight on the dangers of these infections.
2006-08-15 16:51:57 · answer #4 · answered by bad day 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's only cats that I've ever heard of. (Cat feces may play host to a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis.)
It has nothing to do ammonia.
As long as you clean out the cage regularly you will be just fine. Make sure of course that you wash your hands well when your done.
2006-08-15 16:04:15 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
While you are pregnant, get your husband to clean the cage. It's only for a few months. He will live to tell about it...I promise.
2006-08-15 16:00:25 · answer #6 · answered by Mommymonster 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes they all ran away and now I'm lonely. It's saddening because I've allready opened up college funds for them.
2006-08-15 15:57:34 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
i think youll be fine. but i would only do it if your husband cant just to make sure.
2006-08-15 15:56:24 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋