Why can't pregnant women clean/change cat litter?

Answer 1

Because of the risk of toxoplasmosis which can cause serious birth defects or even miscarriage. However, the risk of this is actually very small. And if you've had a cat for a while and have been changing its litter box, chances are you've already been exposed to toxoplasmosis and are immune to it. There is actually a test the doctor can give you to determine if you are already immune. With that being said, if you have the test and are not immune, it's still a good idea to have someone else change/scoop the litter box while you are pregnant. Or, if you have to do it, wear a mask and rubber gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

Answer 2

Pregnant Women And Cat Litter

Answer 3

Pregnant Woman And Cat Litter

Answer 4

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Answer 5

Toxoplasmosis. It's a parasite passed through the feces. It is fairly rare and most women that have had cats for a while have already been exposed but it's always a good idea to stay on the safe side. You can also be exposed by handling dirt(gardening) and raw meat so make sure to wash your hands well and frequently after handling either.

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/factsht_toxoplasmosis.htm

Answer 6

If you have had cats and have been changing the litter all along, then you can continue to do so. You have already developed an immunity to the problems it may cause. If you are just getting a new pet, and are already pregnant, they recommend that you do not change it as you have not developed this immunity, and it may harm the baby. Better safe than sorry.

Answer 7

not only amonia but little tiny bacterica like the first answerer noted is what the cause for concern is. toxoplasmosis is also immunable. if that's even a word...
if you've had a cat before, changed the litterbox, you are probably immune to toxoplasmosis. but just to be safe, stay away from it.

Answer 8

Their is a germ that cats pass into their fecus. It is called 'Toxoplasmosis'. Not every cat has it. When I was pregnant I still changed my cat's box since I was single and was not getting rid of my cat. My cat is strictly indoors and it was fine. Cats get toxoplasmosis by eating mice and other raw meats. My cat doesnt' eat raw anything. Still I wore gloves and a mask. Also, I have had cats for years, so I most likely have had toxoplasmosis before as I used to have outdoor/indoor cats. So I am most likely immune to it. If you have the option, let someone else. If not wear gloves and a mask, and even a gown... I did even though I am certain that my cats don't have it and I am certain that I am immune. I still was catious

Answer 9

because there is onina in cat litter!

Answer 10

All the feces of meat eating creatures contains certain bacteria which can cause sickness in those with weakened immune systems (pregnant woman are in that group) This particular sickness causes serious complication in the unborn baby, which can result in all things including loss of pregnancy.