Safe to have a rabbit while I am Pregnant?

[minners]

Does anyone know if it is safe to have a rabbit while I am pregnant? I love Ms. Christie, but I want what would ultimately be best for me and my baby. Advice anyone?

[Charlcie]

You shouldn\'t have any concerns about keeping Ms. Christie as a pet.

Rabbit litter trays pose no specific hazard to pregnant women, though standard hygiene precautions should always be taken and hands washed after dealing with rabbit urine and feces.

Rabbit feces are not a source of infection. Although rabbits can become infected with various species of tapeworms, humans can only catch tapeworms from rabbits by eating them, so this is not an issue for the pet rabbit owner.

Concerning coccidiosis - the species of coccidia found in rabbits are species specific and do not infect humans. A similar parasite, cryptosporidium, can affect both rabbits and humans (it causes a diarrheal illness) and theoretically can spread from bunny to human. However, this is highly unlikely - you are more likely to catch cryptosporidium from inadequately treated domestic water supplies, or when travelling.

Rabbits can contract fleas, but these are almost always dog and cat fleas that decide to hop on the rabbit for awhile. Some folks get a mild rash should their rabbit end up with fur mites, but again, infestation is not likely unless exposed to a source. If this does occur, the rash clears up as soon as the fur mite infestation is treated.

Good luck (and CONGRATULATIONS!)

Charlcie Gill
Zodiac Rabbitry
Astoria, OR
http://www.zodiacsatins.com

[minners]

Thank You. I was really worried that I might have to give her away. I just found out on Friday, so did not have a chance to ask my doctor, so this was the next best place. I\'m happy that Ms. Christie can stay with me.

[bluebird]

Yes,i was the only one cleaning cages when i was pregnant.congratulations.bluebird

[Keegan]

Its Safe its fine if you want might were you and the baby out but its safe so...