Page 7 - DoggieRescue CATS E-Magazine May 2019

MAY 2019 DOGGIERESCUE.COM CATS E-MAGAZINE 7
a little house, preventing dirty litter falling to the floor. If toxoplasmosis prior to falling pregnant will mean that
you wish to use one of these, it is a good idea to buy your unborn child is protected by your immunity.
sooner rather than later so your cat has time to get used These facts, however, don’t give you the excuse not to
to it as well. Another tip would be to get the cats used to be careful. Below are some tips which reduce the risk.
who will primarily be feeding them. A second hint is to
start playing newborn crying sounds on the television, • Get someone else to clean the litter
websites such as YouTube have many videos available. tray or use gloves
Start off at a soft volume and over a few weeks increase • Wash your hands thoroughly after
the volume, trying to do this a few times a day. Once handling litter
you’ve had the baby it is a good idea, prior to bringing the
baby home, to get your partner to take an item of clothing • Change litter daily
or blanket that the baby has peed on and leave it in the • Do not feed your cat raw meat
house. This will help the cat get used to the smell of the
new baby. It is a good idea to also give the cats a treat so And remember, when in doubt always consult a
they associate a positive interaction with the baby. doctor.

Toxoplasmosis Allergies and Asthma
Toxoplasmosis is a condition which is caused by a A lot of parents are worried that if they have a cat
parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. If infected with this around a newborn, the baby may develop allergies
condition symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, and/or asthma. Asthma is a medical condition which
muscle aches and pains. Toxoplasmosis is normally affects the airways and an allergy is when someone
what relatives are worried about as it can be associated reacts to substances in the environment that are
with feline faeces. If the mother contracts toxoplasmosis harmless to other people. A recent Swedish study has
during pregnancy it can lead to issues with the baby. suggested that the more pets there are around a child
Although, what some people may be lacking in during early development the less likely the child will
understanding is that toxoplasmosis can also be found develop asthma, eczema and hay fever.
in soil, unwashed fruit and vegetables and poor food
preparation. Further studies have been undertaken where the
effects of pets during pregnancy were measured. The
Another interesting fact is that research has suggested results suggested that contact with cats during
primary infection with toxoplasmosis during pregnancy pregnancy has a protective effect for atopic dermatitis
is rare, it has also been suggested that exposure to in early life of the infant. Scientists have developed a
hygiene hypothesis that states a lack of early
childhood exposure to germs and parasites
hinders the natural development of an
immune system. Hence exposure to cats
could actually help develop the immune
system of your child.

Remember too a new baby is an adjustment
for all family members, not only pets.

“ When I became pregnant with
Samantha with her paw
Samuel I did a lot of research on cats
on my bump ( we actually and babies and I hope my tips assist
named the baby after you when bringing your new bundle of
her) our baby is Samuel
though, as he’s a boy. joy into this world whilst still enjoying
your first fur baby.”