Myth: It is not safe to touch a cat during pregnancy because of the risk of toxoplasmosis.
Fact: Not true. This myth is close to the truth but still untrue. The recommendation regarding cats during pregnancy is due to toxoplasmosis, a parasite that can cause serious infections in humans and deformities in the developing fetus. Infection can follow handling of cat litter because it can be found in the stool of cats, so pregnant women are advised not to handle cat litter. However, no other activities are prohibited - feeding or petting your cat and allowing it to sit in your lap are considered perfectly acceptable while pregnant. And the risk of getting toxoplasmosis from your cat can be lowered even further if your cat has tested negative for this parasite or is an indoor cat that eats only store-bought canned or dry food. As is the case with most instances, wash your hands regularly before and after eating or touching something else.