Did you know that more than two-thirds of U.S. households enjoy the companionship of one or more pets? If you’re among them, you likely already appreciate the sheer joy and emotional enrichment they bring to your life. Science backs up your instincts, showing that pet owners often lead happier and healthier lives.

While pets enrich our lives in countless ways, it's important to be aware of certain health hazards that can accompany them, especially during pregnancy. As your belly grows, larger pets might accidentally knock you over. Additionally, pets can sometimes carry bacteria or parasites that could affect human health. Pregnancy involves the health of both mother and fetus, thus it’s critical to mitigate these risks.

Cats

With cats, the primary concern is toxoplasmosis—a parasitic infection that can impact both pregnant women and their unborn babies. Cats acquire Toxoplasma by consuming infected small animals. Once infected, they can spread millions of these parasites through their feces for about three weeks. Exposure can occur when:

• Changing the kitty litter and then touching your mouth,
• Inhaling dry feces from the litter box,
• Gardening without gloves,
• Consuming unwashed or undercooked foodstuffs that have been contaminated.

To protect yourself and your baby from Toxoplasma, follow these tips:

• **Avoid changing litter if someone else can assist. If not, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward**.
• Change cat litter daily—a Toxoplasma parasite requires 1 to 5 days to become infectious.
• Feed your cat commercial food, steering clear of raw or undercooked meats.
• Keep cats indoors to minimize their risk of infection.
• Avoid handling stray cats and postpone adopting new cats during pregnancy.
• Ensure outdoor sandboxes remain covered when not in use.
• Wear gloves when in contact with soil and wash hands diligently afterward.

Dogs

As your pregnancy progresses, especially into the third trimester, physical balance can become a challenge. This increased vulnerability means that a pet dog, no matter how lovable, could accidentally cause a fall. Partnering with someone—like your partner—to take over leash duties can be helpful when routines become cumbersome. A professional dog walker is another safe alternative for ensuring your dog's exercise needs without compromising your safety.

Reptiles and Amphibians

If your house is graced by the presence of reptiles or amphibians, it’s crucial to stay informed of potential health risks. Animals in this category, like frogs, snakes, turtles, and lizards, often carry germs such as Salmonella. They can shed these germs in their droppings and even healthy reptiles and amphibians can be carriers. Salmonella can cause illness ranging from mild diarrhea to severe dehydration, especially in young children or those with weakened immune systems. In the U.S., approximately 74,000 cases of Salmonella infections each year are traced back to contact with reptiles and amphibians.

Small Mammals and Rodents

Small mammals like hamsters, guinea pigs, and mice may harbor lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). This virus creates risks of significant birth defects and miscarriages. If your home includes such pets, avoid cleaning their enclosures or coming into contact with their bodily fluids. Consider relocating their cages to low-traffic areas of your home during pregnancy.

Farm Animals

For those living on or near farms, contact with animals such as cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and chickens poses its own set of potential zoonotic diseases. These infections can range from mild skin irritations to severe illnesses. To combat this, exercise thorough handwashing after contact and be vigilant about maintaining clean and safe environments.