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Toxoplasmosis

Dear Anai,

I was told that changing the cat litter could affect my unborn baby. I have three cats and I don't want to give them away. What are the risks and what can I do?

Answer:

Cat feces contain a parasite called Toxoplasma Gondii. Frequently coming into contact with your cat's litter box puts you at risk for what is commonly known as "toxoplasmosis". Keep in mind that the litter you buy does not contain this organism, only your cats feces.

Toxoplasmosis is dangerous for those who were not previously exposed to it. Once a person has been exposed, they become immune to future attacks of the toxoplasmosis. The symptoms vary person to person. You may have noticed when you first brought your cats home that you were ill without explanation. You may have experienced what you thought were allergies, or a mild flu.

Being that a fetus is so susceptible to illness, it is very important that your partner, family, or friend change the litter box. This applies to any pregnant woman, whether she has been exposed or not.

How does Toxoplasmosis affect my unborn baby?

It is not known why some babies are affected more than others when the toxoplasmosis passes through the placenta. Those babies infected have symptoms ranging from have vision problems even blindness, mild retardation or brain damage. For women who become exposed during their pregnancy have a higher risk of miscarriage and even stillbirth.

The following is a list of ways to avoid becoming infected with Toxoplasmosis. A feline's feces are not the only culprit carrying this parasite. Those with weakened immune systems, who are currently ill or have gone through chemotherapy should follow this list as well.

• Have someone else handle the litter box. If you are alone and have no assisitance, make sure to wear gloves, a paper or cloth face mask
• Outdoor cats may use the soil around your lawn, so wear gloves when gardening.
• After handling your cat, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly
• Cook all meats thoroughly. Wash hands after each handling
• Wash vegetables and fruits before putting them into the crisper and before eating.
• Avoid eating undercooked foods such as egg yolks, meats. Try Vegan!
• Avoid unpasturized dairy products such as unpasturised milk, cheese, yoghurt.

Copyright ©1997 Anai Rhoads.