I recently came across an advice column written by a pediatrician suggesting that pregnant mothers get rid of their cats. The "advice" column included the typical warnings about Toxoplasmosis, but the real kicker was the warning about cats smothering infants in their crib.
This theory has it's origins in 15th and 16th century folklore about he same time we were burning witches and heretics at the stake. The theory has it that evil and vindictive cats, no longer the center of attention in the house hold, will sneak into the baby's room and "suck" its breath away.
Completely and utterly ridiculous!
Cats have been known to jump up into the crib and pay the baby a visit, even snuggling up against a newborn for warmth. If that bothers you, consider closing the door to the baby's room. As far as I can tell documented cases of a cat accidentally smothering a baby in its crib by lying over the baby's face are extremely rare, if they exist at all.
There have been cases of cats found in cribs where and infant has succumbed to
SIDS or sudden infant death syndrome. It is far more common for an infant or child to be accidentally smothered while sleeping in the same bed as the parents.
The bottom line is that cat owners expecting new baby's need not be concerned about their cats.
Pregnant women should take reasonable precautions to avoid exposure to toxoplasma organisms that can be found in cat feces. They should not be changing litter boxes and cats should be on routine anti parasite programs in the first place. In fact, the more common way to contract toxoplasmosis is by eating raw or undercooked meat.
Telling women to get rid of their cats when they become pregnant is irresponsible and indicates a serious lack of understanding about the important role cats play in family life.