got a question about poop and chickens.

[rancher hicks]

Yeah I think this goes here. My DD is pregnant and wondered about being so and around chicks, chickens and their poop. You know the danger about cat boxes and cat poop? Is there any problem with chickens? She has been holding chicks and collecting fresh eggs.

 

[patnjess]

yep there is. same deal, but they can harbor other parasites that can be in there.
When I was pg, dr told me I could collect eggs and feed, but to wash my hands really well, and dont be near it when it is being cleaned.

 

[rancher hicks]

Thanks DD is concerned. she's 26 wks along.

 

[Mandalina]

My doc jut advised me to be careful and make sure I wash my hands well.i even told her when i was 33weeks along and cleaning out the coop before winter and she just said to have fun, not work too hard and try not to inhale too much dust. But my doc also grew up on a farm with chickens so...she may be a little more lax about it LOL.

 

[debilorrah]

I would definitely check with the doctor. I can't remember WHY you can't change a cat box, but I know it is because of something bad.

 

[sune42]

Quote:
It's some sort of parasite, or germ or something like that. My dr actually said if I have been around my cat for a while (read a few years) I didn't need to worry, cause I was used to or immune to my cat's own breed of cooties. So I could change the litter box....I just didn't tell my husband that part.

 

[NewHen]

Quote:
Cats may carry toxoplasma and shed it in their feces. Usually healthy adults would only get a passing illness, but a pregnant mother can unknowingly pass the infection to the unborn child, possibly leading to minor to major issues (from fevers, prematurity, abnormal head size, retinal malformation, mental retardation, seizures , even death of the fetus).

If you look up toxoplasmosis and chickens in pubmed.gov you can read about toxoplasmosis risks with chickens. One study found 30% of house chickens vs 11% of farm chicks had been infected with the parasite. The parasite also may be contracted by eating undercooked meats and poorly washed fruits and vegetables.


I don't know this info reassures or scares a person. I recommend each pregnant person speak to their own OB and then err on the side safety, without freaking out and worrying.