During a prenatal examination, the woman reports having two cats at home. The nurse informs her that she should not be cleaning the litter box while she is pregnant. When the woman asks why, the nurse's best response would be:
A) "Your cats could be carrying toxoplasmosis. This is a zoonotic parasite that can infect you and have severe effects on your unborn child."
B) "You and your baby can be exposed to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in your cats' feces."
C) "It's just gross. You should make your husband clean the litter boxes."
D) "Cat feces are known to carry Escherichia coli, which can cause a severe infection in both you and your baby."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cats are known carriers of the parasite toxoplasmosis, which can be transmitted to humans through exposure to their feces. This parasite can cause severe health problems in the unborn child, including blindness, brain damage, and developmental delays. Pregnant women should take precautions to avoid contact with cat feces to reduce their risk of infection.

During a Prenatal Examination, the Woman Reports Having Two Cats