When a cat owner finds out that she's pregnant, she may have some concerns about the new baby and her cat. In the olden days, it was believed that a cat could steal a baby's soul. Clearly this isn't true and, with a little time and effort, your cat should come to accept the new baby.

One of the main concerns about pregnancy and cats is the risk of pregnant women contracting toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is a parasite which can be transmitted through your cat's feces and it can pose a risk to the fetus, particularly during the second half of pregnancy. This doesn't mean that you have to get rid of your cat. In fact, some 40% of women are immune to toxoplasmosis, and this immunity can be determined by a blood test. Further, indoor cats who are fed prepared food and no raw meet are usually not transmitters of toxoplasmosis. If you are not immune and/or your cat is an outdoor one, certain precautions should be taken. Have another family member change and clean you cat's litter boxes and food dishes while you're pregnant and until you have stopped nursing your newborn. If no one else can do this, wear disposable gloves and even a surgical mask. Also be sure to wash your hands more frequently and more thoroughly after touching and petting your cat. Infections that are detected early can be treated successfully with drugs.

Expectant women may also be concerned about their relationship with their cat and their cat's relationship with the new baby. Just as a small child may become jealous of a new baby brother or sister, so might your cat. You can, however, prepare your cat for the baby's arrival. Get her used to not sitting on your lap but rather next to you and allow her to go into the baby's nursery to check out all the new things and smells. Have other members of the family increase the attention and affection that they give to the cat. After the baby has arrived, remember to supervise interactions between the baby and your cat until you feel fully comfortable with them. It's often advised that small children always be supervised with any animal until the age of seven or so.