Animals

Cats’ faeces may contain an organism which causes toxoplasmosis – a disease which can damage your baby. Avoid emptying cat litter trays while you’re pregnant or, if no one else can do it, use disposable rubber gloves. Trays should be cleaned daily and filled with boiling water for five minutes.

Avoid close contact with sick cats and wear gloves when gardening – even if you don’t have a cat – in case the soil is contaminated with faeces. Wash your hands and gloves after gardening. If you do come into contact with cat faeces, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly. Follow the general hygiene rules under Take care with some foods. For further information, contact the Toxoplasmosis Trust.

Lambs and sheep can be a source of an organism called Chlamydia psittaci which is known to cause miscarriage in ewes. They also carry Toxoplasma. Avoid lambing or milking ewes and all contact with newborn lambs. If you experience flu-like symptoms after coming into contact with sheep, tell your doctor.

Ask your doctor or clinic for a copy of the leaflet 'While you are pregnant: how to avoid infection from food and from contact with animals.' 

Information provided by Health Promotion England.