Cats During Pregnancy
The most important disease transmitted from cats to humans during pregnancy is toxoplasma infections. The causative agent is a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii.
Transmission is possible through contact with cat feces. If feces-contaminated fruits and vegetables are consumed without thorough washing and cooking, or if the meat of cows that have consumed infected vegetables is consumed without proper cooking, there is a risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and the development of anomalies during pregnancy.
An infected cat can transmit the disease for 14 days. After 2 weeks, the contagiousness subsides, they do not become sick again and transmit the disease. Street cats usually contract this disease during their kittenhood and acquire immunity.
Because the agent is transmitted to humans through contact with feces, cat litter should be changed daily (at least once a day), and pregnant individuals should avoid doing it as much as possible. If there is no one else to clean the litter, protective gloves should be worn, and hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and water after cleaning. If your cat does not consume raw meat or raw milk and does not go outside, theoretically, there is no risk of it becoming infected and transmitting the infection to you. Do not allow your cats to go outside and ensure they receive regular vaccinations. During pregnancy, you do not need to send your little friend out of the house, and it is possible to have contact with other cats. However, do not forget to wash your hands with plenty of soap and water after contact.
Dogs During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, there are primarily two infections that can be transmitted from dogs to humans. One is rabies, and the other is hydatid cyst disease. Rabies is a zoonotic disease (transmitted from animals to humans). If a dog bites you, wash the area thoroughly with plenty of soap and water, and then seek medical attention. Hydatid cyst disease is caused by a parasite and, although it does not pose a problem during pregnancy, it can be a risk for the mother. The only way to protect against these two diseases is to ensure that your furry friends receive their vaccinations and anti-parasitic treatments regularly.
Rodents During Pregnancy
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, transmitted from rodents such as hamsters to humans, poses a risk during pregnancy. It can be transmitted through contact or respiratory route. The agent passes directly to the baby and can lead to diseases such as mental retardation, vision impairment, and epilepsy after birth. Therefore, it is more appropriate not to start keeping rodents as pets during pregnancy.
In summary, if vaccinations, anti-parasitic treatments, and hygiene rules are followed, there is no obstacle to completing your pregnancy with your cat and dog companions at home.