Pet Poop Safety

Stay healthy around your pet’s poop  Poop is a fact of life when you have a pet. Poop from pets, like dogs and cats, can carry germs like bacteria and parasites that can make people sick. Poop from pets can also contaminate waterways and harm the environment. Practice responsible pet poop habits to keep yourself, your family, and the environment healthy.

 

Scoop the poop! Always pick up dog poop and dispose of it properly, even in your own yard, and especially in areas where children may play. Clean litter boxes daily and change the litter weekly. People with weakened immune systems and pregnant people should not clean litter boxes if possible, as they are more at risk for complications from germs spread by cats. If no one else can perform the task, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands afterwards. Keep your cat’s litter box away from other animals, children, and food preparation areas.

Practice healthy habits when cleaning up after your pet  Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling your pet’s pee, poop, and vomit. Don’t put your hands in or around your mouth after touching your pet or cleaning up after your pet. Always supervise young children around pets.

 

Learn more about staying healthy around pets

Healthy Pets, Healthy People is CDC's one-stop-shop for information on staying healthy around pets and other animals. Visit the website or follow @CDC_NCEZID for more updates.

 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1600 Clifton Rd   Atlanta, GA 30329   1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636)   TTY: 888-232-6348