Introducing Your Cat to a Baby
It can be a worrying prospect, introducing your new born baby to your cat. Not knowing how your cat will react is nerve-wracking to say the least. Some cats won’t give it a moments thought, but others may display signs of jealousy.
There is not really any way to know which way your cat will go, but there are some precautionary measures you can take to narrow the chances of jealousy or other problems developing.
Make sure your cat is up to date with all injections and medications. It is also worthwhile getting a health check for your cat. Make sure both flea and worming treatments are given to your cat before you return home with the new baby. Trim your cat’s claws too.
Play a recording of a crying baby in your home so your cat can get used to the noise and won’t be frightened or nervous when he hears the noise for real. Also allow him to smell the baby’s things (such as baby powder and wipes) and bedroom furniture. Don’t let him in the baby’s crib however.
Once your baby has arrived, try and send home in advance a blanket she or he has been wrapped in. This will start getting your cat used to the new smell. Once your cat has smelt the blanket, give him lots of praise.
When you have brought the baby home, make sure the cat’s routine is not disrupted as this will make him anxious. When you are with the baby, talk to your cat at the same time so the cat doesn’t feel jealous and forms positive associations with the baby rather than negative ones.
It is important not to rush the introductions between your cat and your baby – often cats will come up to the baby for a sniff and then wander off again. Only let your cat near the baby when you are present however.
Don’t forget to make time for your cat each day. Grooming, playing, stroking are all good activities that will make your cat feel loved. If your cat doesn’t feel included in your life anymore, feelings of jealousy towards the baby may emerge.
If the following advice is adhered to, the chances are slim that your cat will react badly to your newborn baby and you won’t have anything to worry about.
