But there also can be risks involved in keeping pets in a family child care home. A child petting the cat can transfer these spores to her own body. A youngster may get bitten if a pet is mishandled or over stimulated in play, too. The danger is greater in older dogs that are prone to epilepsy because the excitement of play might bring on a seizure. If infected, these birds can transmit an airborne respiratory illness to humans.
Litter boxes are a problem too.
Young children are apt to put just about anything in their mouths, and cat feces may contain organisms that can be transmitted to humans. The benefits of pets far outweigh the risks in most cases. Teach the children to wash their hands after touching the animals. This is especially important before eating. Keep your pets clean.