What diseases of cats are dangerous for pregnant women? - briefly
Pregnant women should be cautious of toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection transmitted through cat feces, as it can pose serious risks to fetal development.
What diseases of cats are dangerous for pregnant women? - in detail
Pregnant women should be particularly cautious about certain diseases that can be transmitted from cats, as these infections may pose significant risks to both the mother and the developing fetus. One of the most well-known and serious conditions is toxoplasmosis, caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Cats are the primary host of this parasite, and they can shed its eggs in their feces. If a pregnant woman accidentally ingests contaminated soil, water, or food, or fails to wash her hands after handling cat litter, she may become infected. Toxoplasmosis can lead to severe complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital defects such as neurological damage, vision problems, or developmental delays in the baby. Another concern is cat scratch disease, caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, which is transmitted through scratches or bites from infected cats. While this condition is generally mild in healthy individuals, pregnant women with weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms, and there is a theoretical risk of complications for the fetus. Additionally, ringworm, a fungal infection that cats can carry, can spread to humans through direct contact. Although ringworm is not typically life-threatening, it can cause discomfort and requires treatment to prevent its spread. Pregnant women should also be mindful of zoonotic diseases like salmonellosis, which can be transmitted through contact with cats that have ingested contaminated food or water. Salmonella infection during pregnancy can lead to dehydration, fever, and, in rare cases, complications for the fetus. To minimize these risks, pregnant women should practice good hygiene, avoid handling cat litter or delegate this task to someone else, and ensure their cats receive regular veterinary care to maintain their health and reduce the likelihood of disease transmission.