The concern here is toxoplasmosis a parasitic infection that can be transmitted through cat poop such as in kitty litter or outdoor soil where cats have defecated.
Cleaning litter box pregnant.
The humane society of the united states offers these suggestions.
Pregnant women are often told that they should not clean out a cat s litter box when trying to conceive as well as once the pregnancy has been confirmed.
It s a popular myth that pregnant women will contract a disease or harm their baby if they continue to clean their pet s litter box but in reality more people contract toxoplasmosis from mishandling and eating raw meat than cleaning kitty s throne.
Ask a partner friend or family member to clean the litter box while you are pregnant.
There you have it you have 48 hours as a pregnant woman to clean out the litter box.
If a pregnant woman does find it necessary to change a cat litter box she should wear gloves when doing so and wash her hands thoroughly afterward.
But we can just keep telling our men it s not safe.
If you must clean the box yourself wear gloves and then thoroughly wash hands.
Make sure the litter box is cleaned daily and keep your cat indoors.
Toxoplasmosis cysts in the litter box require 48 hours to become infective.
It is for the health and wellbeing of the mother as well as for her unborn baby.
Even with a litter scoop it s gross but we love our cats so we do it.
The likelihood of getting sick after cleaning your cat s litter box is very small.