As Mentioned!! What Are the Benefits and Risks of Keeping Cats During Pregnancy?

As Mentioned !!

What Are the Benefits and Risks of Keeping Cats During Pregnancy?

There Are Benefits

A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States found that mothers who have pets during pregnancy may experience reduced stress and anxiety. Having a pet can help mothers feel more relaxed, develop a more positive outlook, and reduce feelings of loneliness because they have a companion. This can have positive effects on the mother's health and emotions, as well as the baby’s development in the womb. Playing with pets can also be considered a form of light exercise.

There Are Also Risks

Pregnant mothers may not know that cats can carry germs or parasites in their intestines that may cause toxoplasmosis (commonly known as “cat feces disease”). This infection can enter a pregnant mother’s body if she comes into contact with cat feces and does not clean herself properly. The infection may then spread through the placenta to the baby in the womb.

The most dangerous period is when infection occurs during the first 3 months of pregnancy. If the infection is severe, it may cause miscarriage or the baby to die before birth. It may also affect the baby after birth, even 6–7 months later. Infected children may experience vision problems, intellectual disabilities, or learning difficulties.

However, not every baby infected with toxoplasmosis will develop severe symptoms. Some infected babies may show no obvious abnormalities. Nevertheless, no mother would want to take unnecessary risks.

Therefore, prevention is always the best approach.