| PETS &
YOUR BABY |
Congratulations, you're
expecting a baby! If your family already
includes a pet, you'll need to help your pet
adjust to the new baby you'll soon bring home.
You can help your pet cope with this big change
in much the same way parents help children
understand that a new brother or sister will be
joining the family. By following the tips below,
you can ease your pet's stress, help her welcome
your new baby, and ensure that your pet stays
where she belongs?with you and your growing
family.
Can I Keep My Cat?
If you're pregnant, you've probably heard of
toxoplasmosis because it can cause serious birth
defects. However, toxoplasmosis is a rare
disease in the United States and is one that can
easily be avoided. While the disease-causing
parasite can be found in the feces of cats who
ingest raw meat, birds, mice, or contaminated
soil, toxoplasmosis is more commonly found in
uncooked or undercooked meat.
If you're concerned about a possible exposure,
ask your obstetrician to perform a simple blood
test. If the result shows you were exposed to
toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, you may be given
medication and your baby may be tested and
treated soon after birth. Keep in mind that the
odds of contracting toxoplasmosis during
pregnancy are extremely low, and even lower for
your baby. Being pregnant does not mean you have
to give up living with and caring for your
beloved cat. Toxoplasmosis is easily avoided by
practicing good hygiene and responsible pet
care. Just follow these simple steps to reduce
the risk:
Avoid handling or eating uncooked meat.
Be certain to wash all cutting boards and
utensils that may have come in contact with meat
before using them to prepare other foods.
Have someone else clean the litter box daily.
If you must clean the litter box, wear rubber
gloves and thoroughly wash your hands afterward.
Feed cats only commercially prepared cat food.
What Do We Do After Baby Is Born?
 Welcoming
a new baby is exciting for your family. Remember
when you first brought home your dog or cat? But
before you bring your baby home from the
hospital, have your partner or friend take home
something with the baby's scent (such as a
blanket) for your pet to investigate.
When you return from the hospital, your pet may
be eager to greet you and receive your
attention. Have someone else take the baby into
another room while you give your pet a warm, but
calm, welcome. Keep some treats handy so you can
distract your pet.
After the initial greeting, you can bring your
pet with you to sit next to the baby; reward
your pet with treats for appropriate behavior.
Remember, you want your pet to view associating
with the baby as a positive experience. To
prevent anxiety or injury, never force your pet
to get near the baby, and always supervise any
interaction.
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