And Baby Makes... Four? or More?
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Introducing your Cat to the New Addition
So you just found out a baby is on the way: there are several things you can do to help your feline family members adjust to the new addition. There are also several things you should discuss with your doctor, most importantly, getting a titer done to see if you have been exposed to toxoplasmosis, and what precautions should be taken to prevent exposure of your unborn child (wearing rubber gloves and mask while changeing the litter box - or better yet, have someone else do it; not handling raw meat or poultry; wearing gloves and a mask while gardening). Once that's out of the way, start preparing your cats for the new arrival.
A Trip to the Veterinarian is in Order
* First off, take your cat into the veterinarian for a wellness exam and any necessary booster vaccinations. All pets should be vaccinated against rabies, even if it is an indoor only cat. Cats that go outdoors should be on heartworm preventative and spot on flea control products; these are the safest products to use in a household with babies and other children – don’t use flea collars, sprays or powders.
* Next, get your nursery set up and let the cats explore the changes; if you are not going to let your cat into the nursery, start keeping them out of the room at least three months prior to the baby’s arrival, and be consistent. You may want to consider installing a screen door in the nursery so the cats stay out but you can see and hear the baby.
* Get your cat used to the changes in routine by going in to the nursery first upon awakening, even before the baby arrives. Set out baby wipes, powder, etc. so your cat can get used to the smells. Invite friends with babies to visit – it gets your cat used to the idea of having babies around. Encourage your friends to perform all the usual parenting functions, such as diaper changes, feeding, and play.
After the Baby Arrives...
* Although difficult to do with short hospital stays, bring home a piece of unwashed clothing from the baby, so your cat can get used to its scent.
* Have someone else bring the baby through the door, so the new mother can have a normal first contact with the cats, which tells them everything is ok.
* Let your cat sniff and investigate the new arrival in a controlled environment with no distractions or visitors. A nervous animal startles more easily, so be sure everyone moves slowly and talks softly. Speak in a normal happy voice – if you sound cautious or stressed, your cat will be nervous too.
Don't Forget your Cat!
* Don’t forget your cat! Most people regularly talk to their pets – maybe it’s just saying “Hi” or “Nice Kitty” when you walk into the room, or rubbing them behind the ears or under the chin; talk a good lock at your current communication with your cat, and make sure it doesn’t disappear when the baby arrives.
* Make sure you continue to spend quality time with your cat – either synchronized with baby time or when the baby’s asleep. Don’t force your cat and baby together.
* Don’t keep your cat’s food and litter box in baby’s reach.
* Don’t allow the baby to pull tails, whiskers, or throw things at the cat.
Never leave an infant or toddler unattended with any animal!
