Cats and Babies - Tips for a Peaceful Coexistence

If you are an expecting family, it is natural to worry about the safety of your baby. There are many tales going around about newborns and cats, some of them none too pleasant. There's no need to worry, though. Cats and babies have lived together harmoniously throughout the ages, and there are many things you can do to help them become friends.

If you are a cat owner, I am certain that you love your feline friend and worry that now that a baby is on his/her way, you may have to rehome your feline. This can be a heartbreaking thought, and I can assure you that it is not necessary.

Before Birth

There are a few things you can do to allow a cat to get used to the upcoming changes in your household. This will make the introduction of a new family member that much easier, and will allow your cat to learn that a baby's presence poses no threat.

- It is important to familiarise your feline with the sounds and smells of a baby. Experts recommend expecting mothers to wear, for example, baby lotions and powders of their chosen brands. Allow your feline to sniff these smells and get used to them, praise her and give her a treat, to develop positive associations.

- If you have friends or family with a baby, ask them to visit you a few times, bringing the baby along. This way, your cat can get used to having a baby in the house.

- A baby's crying can be unsettling to a feline. Not many cats enjoy loud noises, so it's best to get her used to it in advance, to learn that there is nothing to fear. Experts advise to get a recording of a baby crying. Play this recording softly and for a short while, then build up to a louder volume and a lengthier amount of time. Be sure to praise your cat and treat her, again to develop positive associations.

- Cats are always curious about any changes in the house, so when you are setting up the nursery, allow your cat to investigate, but teach her that she is not allowed to get inside the cot, pram or bath. You can provide yourself with a cot and/or pram net. Do make sure that you pull the cot netting taut, otherwise it might make for a very inviting sleeping spot!

- If you are still worried about your cat having access to the nursery, my best advice is to get your feline used to the idea that that space is out of bounds, at least whilst the baby is asleep and/or being bathed.

Health Issues

- Though, yes, cats can indeed harbour diseases, there are very few that are transferable from cat to human. In fact, it is quite rare for a human to pick up anything from a cat. Still, it is advisable to take your cat to the vet for a check-up before the baby is born.

- Make sure to wear protective gloves when cleaning the litter tray and wash your hands afterwards. Alternatively, ask someone else to clean the tray for you.

- Regularly de-worm and de-flea your cat.

After The Happy Event

- Don't be worried if your feline is curious about the newcomer and wants to sniff him/her. This is only natural, and it will help your cat grow familiar with the newborn.

- To avoid any jealousy issues, do spend some quality time with your feline. Make sure she knows she still has your affection. Giving your cat a little treat when feeding the baby can be helpful in building good relations and letting her know you are thinking about her.

- Some cats are more wary of change than others. Don't be offended if it takes a while before your cat shows any enthusiasm for the new addition to your family. She might be a bit quiet and withdrawn until she is used to the situation.

In Summary

Please don't worry about the urban legends about cats and babies. With a bit of care and good judgement they can happily coexist, just as they have done throughout the ages.

And when your child gets older, no doubt he/she will become great friends with your feline and both will bring you many smiles.

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