Cat litter boxes can pose a risk of toxoplasmosis infection to pregnant women. But that doesn't mean you have to give up your cat because you're pregnant. Here are some ways to lower your risk of toxoplasmosis infection.
Train Your Cat To Use The Toilet
Toilet training your cat can take a few weeks and might seem like a real hassle. But, in the end, you'll never have to worry about cleaning or changing a litter box again. Once your cat is trained, all risks associated with infectious waste will be effectively eliminated.
Use An Automatic Litter Box
Automatic cat litter trays can greatly reduce the risk of infection from agents in cat feces. Automatic litter trays keep themselves clean constantly. This can be a real help in preventing toxoplasmosis infection, as the Toxoplasma gondii parasite that causes it doesn't become infectious until one to five days after it's excreted in cat feces. Use an automatic cat box, and empty the waste receptacle daily.
Use Clumping Cat Litter
Clumping kitty litter helps keep your cat's litter box clean, because it enables you to remove infectious waste immediately. Flushable cat litter is easy to dispose of hygienically, and many types of flushable cat litter also clump.
Enlist Help
While pregnant, it's a good idea to refrain from all contact with cat feces if possible. Have someone else dispose of cat waste and clean your litter box. If you can't get help, wear rubber gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with hot water and soap after cleaning the cat litter box.