is it harmful for me to pet outside stray cats? I didn't know and I pet some. I'm worried.

alrighty thank you guys

no..its just not good to clean a cats litter box...and really any animal that rolls or deals with its poop daily can do the same

Only thing I've heard is that it can cause problems if you let them walk across your lap. I'm pretty sure it is just their poop. The doctor does recommend washing your hands after you pet a cat.

I didn't wash my hands after because I didn't think it could harm the baby. I only thought cat poop can.

as long as you wash your hands you should be fine. I wouldn't do it anymore though because you never know what diseases they are carrying and you don't want to put yourself at unnecessary risk.