How to Clean a Litter Box if You're Pregnant

Cleaning the litter box is one of those unpleasant tasks that everyone with a cat has to do at some point. It's always best to let someone else take care of that task if you're pregnant, but that's not always an option. According to the Center for Disease Control, toxoplasmosis is a risk to pregnant women who clean cat litter because the parasite can pass to the unborn child, causing birth defects or death. The CDC recommends letting someone else handle the job unless there is no other option.

Things You'll Need

  • Latex gloves
  • Litter box changing tools
  • Plastic grocery bag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on latex gloves. Toxoplasmosis is not airborne; the parasite enters your body through contact. By wearing latex gloves, you reduce the risk of the parasite making contact with your skin.

    • 2

      Using your scoop, carefully take the cat feces out of the litter box and dump it in the plastic bag.

    • 3

      Continue until the litter is clean, taking care not to come into contact with the scoop, box or any other implement that may have come in contact with the cat feces. Once you are done, tie a knot in the top of the bag, and toss in the trash.

    • 4

      Carefully remove the gloves, pulling them off inside-out, and throw them away. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and soap.