If I become pregnant, do I have to get rid of my cat?
No, it is not necessary to get rid of a cat because its owner is pregnant. Care should be taken to prevent exposure to Toxoplasma, a disease associated with the handling and consumption of undercooked or raw meat from infected animals, and cats. Of all animals infected, cats are the perfect host for the production of the infectious and resistant Toxoplasma oocysts. The oocysts are released from the cat in its feces. Because the oocysts are not infectious immediately, the risk of infection can be greatly reduced with minimal preventative measures. Avoid changing the litter box if possible.

If you must change it, use rubber gloves. Change the litter box daily, dispose of the litter in a sealed plastic bag, and always wash your hands with soap and water when finished. Try not to raise a lot of dust from the litter as it is changed. Since most cats clean themselves constantly, it is unlikely for them to leave feces on their fur, and it is unlikely that humans will become infected by handling the cat.

Show All Answers

1. What animals do you currently have available for adoption?
2. Are you a No-Kill Shelter, and what does this mean?
3. How old do you have to be to volunteer at the Pet Adoption Center?
4. Can you pay for my vaccines and medical expenses for my sick/injured pet?
5. What do I do if I've lost my pet?
6. How does a dog get heartworms and how do I know if they have it?
7. What causes hot spots on my dog?
8. Does spaying / neutering make a pet fat and lazy?
9. What should I do about a barking dog problem in my community?
10. What should I do if my neighbor's dog runs at-large?
11. What should I do if there is a dangerous or threatening dog in my neighborhood?
12. I have discovered a stray or lost pet, what should I do?
13. My pet is missing. Can you take my information and call me if it comes in?
14. Is chocolate poisonous to dogs and cats?
15. My pet has fleas, how do I get rid of them?
16. How do I stop my cat from scratching the furniture?
17. What kind of food should I feed my dog / cat?
18. If I become pregnant, do I have to get rid of my cat?
19. How do I introduce a new cat to my household that already has a cat?
20. I have a wild animal in my yard or home. What can I do?
21. There is a dead animal on the street or in my yard. What do I do?
22. I have discovered an injured hawk, owl, eagle, or other bird of prey. What should I do?