I’m pregnant! And I have a dog/cat

Congratulations!

This is an exciting and tumultuous time. First off, you don’t have to get rid of your pet. By making them part of your journey and being vigilant, there’s no reason your pet cannot continue to be a valued member of your family. Having a pet during your pregnancy can actually be beneficial for keeping allergies at bay in you child.*

Start now. Please don’t wait until you’re bringing baby home to try integrate them. You’ll be busy enough with the crying, messing, loving lump. Starting now will set you up for success.

Both cats and dogs may not be used to the noises and smells that comes with babies. Introduce noise, say with a tape of crying noises or app like Sound Proof Puppy Training, increasing volume gradually. This might help you too. Let pets cuddle up to your belly (within reason) and allow them to sniff blankets and other items. If baby is born in hospital and has to stay a few days, bring home scent on blankets.

Dogs may need to learn to be alone, and will need a space to retreat to if it all gets too much, or your need them out from underfoot. Crate or Place training is ideal for this. Cats likewise will need a retreat place. Putting platforms on your walls where they can observe from up high would be ideal.

Both may need a new routine. Dogs may need to learn that the routine is no longer set in stone, and be able to cope if they don’t get a walk that day. Still walk the dog whenever you can (also good for you, right?). Take a pram or stroller with you on walks so you both get used to the dynamics of walking with one. Cats will benefit from keeping their routine as close to now as possible. If you do need to change something, introduce changes slowly. Try Rescue Remedy or Feliway/Adaptil to help keep things calm.

It is not recommended for pregnant ladies to clean cat litter. This is due to the risk of exposure to toxoplasmosis. This is not a reason to give up your cat or not clean the litter tray. If no one else can clean it, wear gloves and use disinfectant to reduce your risk. The risk itself is relatively low – you are more likely to contract toxo from uncooked meat than from having a cat.

Keep your dog and cat free of fleas and worms by maintaining your parasite control treatments. Keep vaccinations up to date. Zoonoses (diseases transmissible to humans) are rare. Maintaining good hygiene (washing hands after petting and feeding, using hand sanitisers, wearing gloves, etc) will keep your risk well at bay.

Most of all RELAX. Enjoy your pregnancy and the time you have with your pets before baby comes along. Be mindful that when baby arrives everyone’s lives will be turned upside down in a good way, and if you have a great bond with your pet, and have set them up for success, problems should be minimal.

And you know what? Call me, I can help.

*more reading: http://www.fitpregnancy.com/parenting/postnatal-health/truth-about-germs

(photo credit to Linda Smith, Melanie Bradshaw-Dunn and Google, made on Collage.com)

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *