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Just found out I'm pregnant. Have a zoo of pets...Is it safe to handle them?

I just got my first positive pregnancy test! I have a zoo of pets: Rats, Mice, Hamsters, ASF, Birds, Ferrets, Hedgehogs, Reptiles and Amphibians (including snakes and Lizards), Fish, Kitten, Dog, Cat, Invertebrates/Creepy Crawlies. Is it safe to clean cages and handle my animals as long as I use proper hygiene and possibly wear gloves and a dust mask when handling, feeding, watering, and cleaning cages? My pets are my babies, however, my child comes first now...

4 Answers • 9 years ago


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I'm not sure about the small animals. I know some reptiles carry salmonella and that birds can carry diseases in their poop. I do know first hand (I have had cats with both of my pregnancies) that you aren't supposed to clean litter boxes when pregnant due to the risk of toxoplasmosis, which can cause severe birth defects in an unborn child. Once I got my positive hpt, my hubby would take over litter box duty, but I would still feed, water, and pet the cat with no precautions since the risk is in the fecal matter. Do you have anyone who can take over cleaning cages & scooping litter boxes until you can talk to your OB? If not, then I would suggest taking every precaution that you can. Also, you may be able to find some info online about your more non-traditional pets and their safety with pregnant women. Congrats and gl!

9 years ago


The other poster is correct about the reptiles and cats. I also have rats and a tarantula, I know that with rats you can play with them and what not as long as you wear a mask while cleaning their bedding and litter boxes. Other then that, washing your hands after handling should be plenty enough. As far as the creepy crawlies, wash well after words and maybe gloves cause of the tarantula hairs, but I can't see much of a threat with them if they are properly cared for. Good luck mama, and CONGRATS!!!!

9 years ago


You need to stay away from cats not sure about the others you need to seek professional advise on the ASAP . Good luck


9 years ago


You don't have to stay away from the cats. Wear gloves when you do the litter box, or at the very least, wash your hands really well. I worked in the Pet Care department at PetSmart throughout my pregnancy, handling birds, fish, reptiles, small pets, and cats, and cleaning all habitats. We used gloves and face masks, like you suggested. I worked with several pregnant ladies in the department over the years, and it was never an issue. Congratulations!

9 years ago


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