Our question this week was:

I am pregnant and suspect my cat has fleas, we are treating this but I am concerned that this could be dangerous for me. One cat catches mice quite often. Is this dangerous for me too? They sleep on my bed-should I stop this?

Rhona Millar

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. Congratulations on your pregnancy. If you are a healthy woman, fleas are not considered a big problem to people, including pregnant women. Generally catching mice is not a problem either.

I'd recommend using products on your cats to prevent and treat fleas so they are not a problem. I'd recommend picking up any dead nice with gloves and washing your hands carefully. I'd also recommend using gloves to scoop the litter box or allowing someone else to do it while you are pregnant. Nothing else should be of concern.

Discuss your concerns with your physician as well in the case there is something unique about your immune system that should cause concern.

An article that might be helpful to you is Are cats Dangerous to Pregnant Women? Another article that might be useful is called Pour it on the Flea Products for Cats that covers some topical flea products that can prevent and treat fleas.

Best of luck!


Dr. Jon



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