Rituximab and pets

[ks1966]

Good day, everyone.

I’m currently undergoing treatment with Rituximab and am considering adopting a cat.

I would appreciate any insights regarding the risk of increased infections or other concerns related to these furry companions.

Thank you.

[Amnesiac3637]

Hi. One of the joys of life is having a pet so go ahead and adopt your cat and enjoy every minute with them.

The only thing to be aware of is good hygiene around litter trays, food bowls etc., but that’s a given. Millions are on drugs like Rituximab and have animals they share their houses and their lives with. I’ve had RA for over 34 years and have had a variety of drugs (including Rituximab) and dogs and cats during that time and my life has been hugely enriched.

If your cat ever has a live vaccine (outwith my experience) check with your vet that you’re not at any risk of cuddling the cat within some hours of the jab being given though I think this mainly applies to dogs and Kennel Cough.

Can’t think of any other concerns apart from the usual ones of owning any animal these days - food bills, equipment, vet’s bills, trying to find the cat when it’s gone awol…………🙄

Best of luck and enjoy your new companion!

[ks1966 in reply to Amnesiac3637]

Very insightful and thank you very much. I might just as well go ahead

[medway-lady in reply to ks1966]

We have a rescue moggy, it’s had major surgery at 3 months due to complications of the spaying procedure, it’s now aged 14 a diabetic so gets insulin twice a day and special food. And adding insult to the wallet 2 teeth out in November at a cost of £700. But you can see a vet the same day and no waiting lists for surgery. No wonder our lovely vet drives a Porsche ! But I’d not swap the pleasure the little devil has given in all those years to get the money back. She is worth it and obviously rules the house. Sleeps where it likes and we both decided as long as not in pain we will pay for the insulin and blood tests for as long as necessary. Get your cat, and enjoy having the company they give. My brother owns a hospital visiting dog. It is a Border Collie and goes to the wards to get patients to interact.

[cathie]

I’ve lived with cats throughout my biologic treatment including rituximab. A lovely being to share your life with

[Tkat10]

hi I lived in a household with up to for cats when I had my rituximab treatment and was absolutely fine. They were always so supportive after my treatment and could not live without them.

[ruth_p]

Do it! The benefits of a furry friend are great, the love and affection they give you are great for your heart and mental wellbeing. Plus stroking their fur helps reduce stress. 🐈

[RAat13]

I'm on RTX and have a dog, you are at risk of catching something outside more than from a pet. Adopt away. If it was a concern your healthcare would tell you and it would be in the information leaflets.Enjoy your furry companion 😊

[wilbertjellyfish]

I work in a vets, have five dogs and a cat in the house and live on a farm. No issues with the biologic and pets. Just be sensible about hygiene and avoid this fad of raw pet diets, there is a risk with those.

[Grumpyoldmare]

I am on Rituximab and have 2 dogs, 3 cats, 8 chickens, 2 horses and around 200 sheep and 50 cows! Wouldn't be without my animals. I am careful about handwashing and treating any scratches, particularly around lambing, but have never had any problems. I am prone to chest infections, which seems to be my biggest issue with Rituximab, but manage well and my RA is so much better.

[ks1966 in reply to Grumpyoldmare]

Goodness

[bpeal1]

We have two rescue cats and have never had any issues from them with Rituximab.