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Many couples are under the impression that they must rehome their cat before starting a family as the result of myths and superstitions they’ve been led to believe like, "pregnant women shouldn’t even touch a due to the possibility of contracting toxoplasmosis" or that "cats will steal a baby’s breath", but these aren’t entirely wrong.
Let’s learn what it takes for both children and cats to coexist in all stages of life!
Toxoplasmosis: What Pregnant Women Should and Shouldn’t Do
During pregnancy, mothers are safe to pet the family cat. Toxoplasmosis is commonly found in outdoor cats because they actively hunt mice, rats, and other rodents. Nevertheless, indoor cats can still contract toxoplasmas and spread the disease. It’s transmitted to humans by touching the feces or cleaning out the litterbox of an infected cat. Pregnant women should avoid cleaning out the litterbox at ALL costs.
Newborns & Cats: What Precautions Must be Taken
No, cats don’t steal the breath away from a baby, BUT they can accidentally suffocate them.
Just like your cat likes to sleep on your chest, she might decide to do the same on your baby’s head, neck, or chest. Remember that cats don't understand. Make completely sure that you don't leave your baby unsupervised and that you have baby monitors in the nursery so you can keep a close eye on your little one.
Don’t leave your child and cat unsupervised until your child is old enough to not hurt the cat or allow the cat to hurt them.
Toddlers & Cats: Double Trouble
Cats and toddlers don’t always get along very well, but it doesn’t have to be that way!
Toddlers can be energetic and annoying at times. Cats are known for their calm and timid disposition–this can cause the two to clash occasionally.
Teach your child how to approach, hold and pet a cat correctly (stress the fact that cats hate for their tails to be touched or tugged on).
Remember that your toddler isn't quite old enough to be left alone with the family cat.
NEVER allow your child to touch or scoop out your cat’s litterbox; toddlers are infamous for eating things that aren’t food.
Be sure to keep your cat’s nails trimmed to avoid scratch marks on your child during playtime.
Works Cited
“Cats and Kids: Nurturing a Safe Relationship,” PurrfectPost,
“Toxoplasmosis - Symptoms and causes,” Mayo Clinic,
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