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Pregnancy And Toxoplasmosis |
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Pregnancy Health -
Questions
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Pregnancy And Toxoplasmosis.My vet told me to be careful about caring for my cat. What does caring for my cat have to do with my pregnancy?
If you have a cat, you may be exposed to toxoplasma gondii, a protozoa that causes toxoplasmosis. The disease is spread by eating raw, infected meat or by contact with infected cat feces. You can pick up protozoa from an infected cat's litterbox, from counters, other sur-• faces the cat walks on or from the cat itself when you pet it. What problems can toxoplasmosis cause me or my baby?
Infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or an infected infant at birth. Usually an infection in the mother causes no symptoms.
How can I protect myself from toxoplasmosis?
Avoid exposure to cat feces; get someone else to change the kitty litter. Keep cats off counters and other areas where you could pick up the protozoa. Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with your cat or contact with raw meat. Keep counters clean, and cook meat thoroughly. Hygienic measures prevent transmission of the protozoa.
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