One of the most important things to know is that pregnant women should never change the kitty litter. There is a risk that they could be infected with toxoplasmosis. This is a disease that may not give you any symptoms. If there are symptoms, it is like having mono. The disease is spread through contact with cat feces or by eating raw or undercooked meat. Pregnant women should not have contact with kitty litter.

Infection during early pregnancy may lead to fetal infection and death or brain defects in the baby.

Pets and Your Child

The key to safety with pets is adult supervision. Even the best socialization and training cannot completely remove the risk of a pet hurting a child.

If you have a family pet, make changes before the baby comes home. Get the dog ready for the idea that he (or she) is not going to be the centre of attention anymore. You need to teach the dog that it can't be underfoot all the time. He needs to accept that it is okay to be on the other side of the baby gate sometimes.

Cats are attracted to warm and softness. A cat might curl up on or close to a baby and smother them. This is why cats need to be kept out of the baby's sleeping area by covering the crib with netting or closing the door.

There are some animals that are not safe with infants. For example, ferrets are not suitable pets in households with young children. They can be very aggressive and have been know to injure babies.

As a responsible pet owner and parent, it is your job to protect children. But it is also your job to be aware of what bothers your pet and not put them in situations that make them uncomfortable.

For More Information on Your Pregnancy

Contact the Health Unit to speak with a public health nurse. In Clinton and area call 519.482.3416 or toll free 1.877.837.6143. Residents in northern communities in the County can contact a public health nurse in Wingham at 519.357.4993.