Recently, fashion designer Masaba Gupta shared a lovely picture from her baby shower on Instagram, where she posed with her dog. This raised a common question among many expecting mothers: is it safe to touch or be around pets during pregnancy?
Dogs Are Safe Companions During Pregnancy
Experts say that dogs can be safe for pregnant women and their unborn babies. Spending time with pets like dogs can help reduce stress and improve mood by boosting dopamine and serotonin levels. However, there is a small risk involved. Dogs might accidentally jump on your stomach, which could cause discomfort or injury, so it’s important to be cautious when they are around.
Cats and Pregnancy: A Word of Caution
While dogs may be safe, having a cat during pregnancy requires more care. Cats, especially those that go outdoors, can carry a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis. This infection can be harmful to pregnant women, potentially leading to premature delivery or low birth weight. Pregnant women should avoid cleaning litter boxes and limit direct contact with their cats to reduce this risk.
Stay Cautious Around Birds
Pregnant women should also be careful around pet birds. Birds can carry infections like Campylobacter and Salmonella, which can lead to serious complications such as miscarriage. If you have a pet bird, it’s important to keep their living space clean and wash your hands thoroughly after handling the bird or its cage.
How to Safely Interact with Pets During Pregnancy
For those who are pregnant and have pets, it’s important to take a few simple precautions:
- Always wash your hands after handling pets.
- Avoid cleaning litter boxes or bird cages.
- Be careful if pets are jumping or playing around your belly.
- Keep pets up to date with regular vet check-ups to ensure they are healthy.
Pregnancy is a special time, and while pets can offer love and comfort, it’s important to stay informed and take steps to protect both the mother and baby.
