Multi-Organ Transplant

Transplant Pharmacy - Life After Transplant

Pets

A special concern for patients who are on immunosuppressive medications is the possibility of catching diseases from pets. For example, it is possible to contract a disease called toxoplasmosis from exposure to cat feces (e.g. when cleaning out a litter box). The following guidelines are very important to help decrease your chances of contracting infections from pets.

	Wash your hands after handling your pet, especially before eating

	Keep your pet well-groomed and clean

	Maintain an active flea control program for your pet’s health and your own

	Minimize contact with your pet’s bodily fluids (vomit, feces, urine and saliva). Clean up such fluids with a disinfectant, and have someone not at risk take care of this if possible.


	Do not let a pet lick a wound or your face

	Be sure that all of your pet’s vaccinations are up to date

	Have a check-up for your pet annually and if they are sick

	Keep your pet’s nails trimmed and short

You should speak to your transplant coordinator for more specific information related to your pet and how to protect yourself from contracting an infection. Some special considerations need to be addressed regarding care of the following animals:

Dogs
Cats
Birds
Turtles

Some animals have been found to be more likely to carry diseases that could spread to you. It is best to avoid them. They are:

Stray or wild animals
Animals with diarrhea
Exotic animals
Sick animals
Monkeys

[back to top]
[back to Transplant Pharmacy homepage]