A cat, dog or other pet can bring comfort to your home. A few simple hygiene habits, especially during pregnancy, help you enjoy that companionship safely.
How pets can affect health
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that pets may help lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels and feelings of loneliness and anxiety, while also increasing opportunities for exercise and social connection.
Everyday hygiene
- Wash your hands after touching or playing with your pet, handling pet food or cleaning pet areas.
- Disinfect pet supplies away from the kitchen.
- Clean up pet waste promptly.
- Keep up regular veterinary care.
- Supervise children under 5 around animals.
The CDC lists young children, older adults, people with weakened immunity and pregnant women as groups at higher risk from diseases spread by animals.
Toxoplasmosis in pregnancy
According to the NHS, the toxoplasmosis parasite can be found in the faeces of infected cats and in undercooked meat, and contaminated soil is another source. Catching…