How many of you have a pet cat living at home?

[bizbiz]

Ever since becoming pregnant so many people have been approaching me saying "keep away from cats". Its pretty hard since I have once. I have read a little about toxomoplasmosis, but I assumed that since I have had cats since I was about 5 I would most surely be immune to it by now (I am assuming I have already caught it)? I have not discussed it with my OB yet, but I have an appointment with him tomorrow so I will ask, but I just wanted to know if anyone else also has a cat at home and if so are you also worried about toxo or taking any special precautions? He actually lives out in the stables with my two horses so I dont change his litter or anything like that since he does his 'business' out in the paddocks.

Thanks.

[pcarsey]

5 cats here but they all go out the cat door to use the bathroom so no changing litter boxes. I think it's only if you actually come in contact with the poo. They have some kind of worms in them or something (if I remember correctly from the vet).

[bizbiz]

Thanks everyone! Its comforting to know that plenty of others have cats and are fine, or parents / sister / brothers had cats during pregnancy and their children are also fine.

[Tanker Chic]

as long as you aren't changing the a littler box I don't think there is anything to worry about.  We have two cats.  

[jbrooks39]

i have 4 cats,i have had cats all my life,had cats during all 3 of my pregnancies,dumped the litter box myself,i made sure that i wore gloves ,washed my hands afterwards,and nothing ever happened to me.if i get pregnant,i will do the same,i love cats and they are a big part of my family..you will be fine.

[Nickey1]

Well I don't have any cats, BUT my mom had cats our entire life even during her pregnancy with all of my brothers and sisters, and even other people that have lived with us while pregnant, including myself with my DD as I was a teen, and everything seems to be OK with us, we're all grown by the way, but I'd think of that if I suddenly lose it one day as I'm approaching 30 (just wanted to give you a smile) I think you're perfectly fine

[orphanannie59]

It is the outside cats that you need to worry about. You can also get toxoplasmosis from working in the garden if there is feces around (and undercooked meat I think).  It actually comes from them eating rodents and such, so inside cats (solely inside) have a smaller risk of giving it to you.  I have 6 cats in the house all the time, and I don't scoop potty boxes, dh has done it since we found out.  When I love on our outside cat I make sure and wash my hands and arms thoroughly after handling him and don't get him around my face.  It is a small risk, but one you need to be aware of.  The test they give you to see if you have been exposed is really not reliable enough to know (at least that is what my doc said), but you could ask about it anyway.  I feel the same as  you, I have probably already been exposed since I have had cats for 20 years, but still take precautions.  

[valleybabes]

I also have a pet cat that is part of the family and I have not been told of that, though I heard the litter part was not good to be around , but mine also does her buisness outside. I am not worried about that at all. I love my kitty.

[sarge1]

I have 2 cats. I don't change their litter box, I know I'm not supposed to do that, but I haven't heard to stay away from them altogether. I hope not, because I haven't taken any precautions, they even sleep with me.  I'd be curious to know what others have to say.