
Cats and babies can live together harmoniously, but it will take some preparation to ensure the safety of both. Cats can carry diseases that can be harmful to babies, and they can be unpredictable, which is why adult supervision is always necessary when they are together. Before the baby arrives, it is important to prepare your cat for the upcoming changes. This includes playing baby sounds to get your cat used to new noises, and introducing baby smells and objects to help your cat adjust. It is also recommended to keep your cat indoors and away from outdoor or stray cats to prevent the spread of toxoplasmosis, a parasite that can cause many health issues in an unborn baby. After the baby is born, it is important to always keep them supervised when they are together, and to keep the cat away from the baby's sleeping area to prevent suffocation.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Cats and babies living together | Can co-exist harmoniously |
Preparation for baby's arrival | Play baby noises to acclimate cat; rub baby lotion on hands before engaging in a pleasant activity with cat; set up nursery furniture in advance; cover surfaces with double-sided adhesive tape to deter cat; move litter box in advance; switch cat care routines |
After baby is home | Peacefully greet cat in a quiet room without interruption; use a baby blanket or piece of infant-wear in a quiet area where the cat can investigate it; keep crib and other baby sleeping locations off-limits to the cat; close the door to the nursery when the baby is napping; install a temporary screen door or place a crib tent over the crib to keep the cat out |
Health risks to babies | Risk of cat scratches and bites; interference with baby's breathing; risk of infection from cats, including toxoplasmosis, cat scratch fever, and toxocariasis |
Preventing infection | Make sure everyone in the family is up to date with vaccines; wash hands regularly, especially after handling the cat or its litter; keep cat away from baby's toys, nursery, and equipment; keep cat's food, toys, and equipment out of baby's reach |
Hygiene | Stay on top of preventative prescriptions and maintain regular screenings with the vet; always place soiled diapers or clothing in its proper receptacle immediately |
Safety | Do not leave cat and baby alone together; use a screen door to let cat see and hear the baby without investigating unattended; continue to provide a quiet, safe place where the cat can be away from the baby |
What You'll Learn
Preparing your cat for the arrival of a newborn
Cats are creatures of habit and can be easily stressed by changes in their environment. The arrival of a new baby can be a challenging time for your cat, so it's important to prepare your cat for this new family member. Here are some tips to help you get ready for the birth of your child and ensure a harmonious home for both your cat and your newborn:
Start preparing early
Give yourself plenty of time to help your cat adjust to the upcoming changes. It is recommended to start preparing your cat at least four months in advance of your due date. This will allow you to make gradual changes and help your cat get used to the new sights, sounds, and smells associated with a baby.
Get your cat used to baby sounds
Babies make a variety of noises, from cooing and gurgling to crying and screaming. To prepare your cat for these new sounds, play recordings of babies during the day. Start with the volume low, and gradually increase it as your cat becomes accustomed to the noises. You can find these recordings on YouTube or purchase a CD.
Introduce baby smells and objects
Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell, so the arrival of a newborn with its unique scent and array of new products can be unsettling for them. Help your cat adjust by introducing baby powders, shampoos, and formulas into your home before the baby arrives. Using these products on your own skin can help your cat develop positive associations with the new smells. You can also bring home a receiving blanket or piece of infant clothing that has the baby's scent on it and let your cat investigate it in a quiet, safe place.
Make gradual changes to your home
Allow your cat to investigate any new furniture or items you bring into your home, especially in the nursery. Cats can be sensitive to changes in their environment, so make sure to introduce new things gradually. If your cat has access to the nursery, encourage them to sleep in other areas and keep the door closed. You can also use a Feliway spray or diffuser to help familiarise your cat with the new smells of baby items.
Prepare a quiet place for your cat
The arrival of a new baby often brings many visitors, which can be overwhelming for your cat. Make sure your cat always has a quiet, safe place to retreat to when they need some peace and quiet. Encourage your cat to use high, secluded areas, such as a tall scratching post or a high shelf, by placing treats and bedding on them.
Take health precautions
Toxoplasmosis is a parasite that can spread from cats to humans and can cause serious health issues in unborn babies. To prevent the spread of this parasite, keep your cat indoors and avoid stray cats. Wear gloves when handling litter boxes, gardening, and raw foods. It is also recommended to feed your cat cooked meat to avoid the risk of infection.
Limit playtime and attention
While it may be tempting to give your cat extra attention before the baby's birth, this can actually cause confusion and stress for your cat once the baby arrives and your attention shifts. Instead, choose reliable times to feed, clean, and provide one-on-one attention to your cat, and stick to this routine once the baby comes home.
Other considerations
- Avoid playing hand games with your cat. Teach them that only toys are appropriate for play to prevent accidental injury to your baby.
- Separate baby and cat toys to avoid any confusion and potential choking hazards.
- Start feeding your cat off the ground or in a separate room to prevent your baby from accessing their food.
- Make sure your cat is in good physical health and is free from fleas and worms to avoid behaviour issues.
- Always supervise your cat and baby together, especially when your baby is sleeping.
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Preventing accidents and injury
Cats and babies can live together harmoniously, but it will take some preparation to ensure the safety of both your baby and your cat. Here are some measures you can take to prevent accidents and injuries:
During Pregnancy
- Keep your cat indoors and avoid befriending neighborhood cats or strays. The parasite Toxoplasmosis can be caused by a cat eating small mammals or birds, and this can result in serious health issues for a pregnant woman and her unborn baby.
- Wear gloves when gardening, handling raw food, and when handling litter boxes or outdoor gardens.
- Avoid scooping litter when possible, and undergo regular screening if you are pregnant.
- Make gradual changes to help your cat adjust to the upcoming arrival. Spend plenty of time with your cat and get them used to being handled and touched more often.
- Avoid playing hand games with your cat. Teach your cat that only toys are appropriate for play.
- Get your cat accustomed to baby sounds by playing recordings of babies gurgling, cooing, and crying. Start quietly and gradually increase the volume.
- Introduce baby smells and objects, such as powders, shampoos, and formula, into your home. Placing these products on your skin can help your cat develop positive associations with the new smells.
- Set up baby furniture and surfaces ahead of time and cover them with sticky tape to deter your cat from sleeping in those areas.
- If the litter box was previously kept in the nursery, move it to its new location gradually, a few inches at a time.
- Shift any cat care routines, such as feedings, grooming, and sleep locations, to the new caregiver at least one to two months before the baby arrives.
After Baby Arrives
- When you first arrive home from the hospital, set aside quiet time for just you, your cat, and the baby to peacefully greet one another.
- Provide your cat with a used receiving blanket or piece of infant wear in a quiet area where they can investigate the baby's scent at their own pace.
- Always supervise your cat and baby together. Keep the door closed when you cannot immediately supervise them, especially when the baby is sleeping.
- Be mindful of hygiene. Keep your cat clean and free of pests, and always place soiled diapers or clothing in their proper receptacle immediately.
- Provide a safe space for your cat to retreat to and be alone, away from the baby and any chaos.
- Do not neglect your cat's basic hygiene needs or playtime. Even a short play session is better than nothing.
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Hygiene and health precautions
Before the Baby Arrives:
- Prepare your cat for the upcoming changes: Gradually introduce your cat to new baby-related items, allowing them to get accustomed to the sights, sounds, and smells associated with the baby. This includes playing recordings of baby noises, using baby lotions and creams, and setting up nursery furniture in advance so your cat can investigate.
- Maintain good hygiene practices: Keep your cat's litter box clean and avoid handling soiled cat litter. Wear gloves when cleaning the litter box or gardening to prevent the spread of infections like toxoplasmosis. Wash your hands regularly, especially after handling the cat, its litter, or litter tray.
- Keep the cat away from certain areas: Establish "baby-only" areas or rooms where the cat is not allowed, such as the nursery. Use double-sided sticky tape or a crib tent to deter the cat from sleeping in the baby's crib or changing table.
- Get your cat checked by a vet: Ensure your cat is in good health by taking them for a check-up and keeping their vaccinations, worm, and flea treatments up to date. If your cat is not neutered, consider getting this done before the baby arrives.
- Introduce new caregivers for your cat: If you are the primary caregiver for your cat, start transitioning some duties (e.g., feedings, grooming, playtime) to another family member. This will help your cat adjust to the new family dynamic and ensure they still receive attention and care.
After the Baby Comes Home:
- Supervise interactions between the cat and baby: Never leave your baby alone with the cat, especially as the baby becomes more mobile. Always keep a close eye on them to prevent any accidental scratches or bites, and to ensure the cat doesn't interfere with the baby's breathing by sleeping too close to their face.
- Maintain good hygiene practices: Continue to keep the cat's litter box clean and wash your hands regularly, especially before handling the baby. Keep the baby's feeding utensils and toys away from the cat to prevent contamination.
- Provide safe spaces for both the cat and baby: Offer your cat plenty of hiding spaces and quiet spots to retreat to, away from the baby's areas. Make sure the cat has access to high places, such as cat trees, to help them feel secure and reduce stress.
- Be patient and kind: Give your cat time to adjust to the new family member. Allow them to sniff or investigate the baby at their own pace, and don't force interactions if your cat wants to keep their distance.
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Allergies and illnesses
Before the Baby Arrives
As a parent, you may have heard of toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that can be spread from cats to humans. This parasite can cause many health issues in an unborn baby, such as blindness, deafness, or hydrocephalus. To prevent the spread of toxoplasmosis, avoid stray cats and keep your cat indoors. Be sure to wear gloves when handling litter boxes, gardening, or washing raw vegetables and fruits. It is also recommended to avoid eating or feeding your cat raw or undercooked meat.
After the Baby Arrives
When your baby arrives, it is important to be vigilant about hygiene, as cats can be a source of stomach illnesses that can cause diarrhoea and vomiting. Keep your baby away from the litter box and clean up any pet messes immediately. Wash your hands after changing the cat's litter or performing any routine hygiene maintenance on your cat.
Allergies
While it is rare for babies to show signs of pet allergies before the age of one or two, they can still develop them. Pet allergies occur when a baby's immune system reacts to an animal's dander (skin flakes), saliva, urine, or faeces. Common signs of pet allergies include coughing, wheezing, and hives (raised, red patches on the skin). If you suspect your baby is allergic to your cat, consult a pediatrician or allergy specialist.
Preventative Measures
To reduce the risk of allergies, keep your cat away from your baby's room and restrict it to only a few rooms in the house, preferably uncarpeted ones. Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter to trap animal dander and other allergens. Wash your baby's clothes after any pet interactions and encourage them to avoid close contact with the cat, such as hugging or kissing.
Illnesses
Cats can carry infectious diseases that can be harmful to your baby, such as toxoplasmosis, cat scratch fever, and toxocariasis. These diseases are usually passed on by scratching or through their faeces. To avoid infection, ensure that everyone in your family washes their hands regularly, especially after handling the cat or its litter. Keep all feeding utensils and toys away from the cat's reach, and vice versa.
Scratches and Bites
Cats can be unpredictable and may scratch or bite without warning. If your cat scratches or bites your baby, wash the wound under warm running water, even if the skin is not broken, as cats carry germs on their teeth and claws that can cause illness. Seek medical help if the wound is serious or if there are any signs of infection.
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Bonding and behavioural issues
Cats and babies can live together harmoniously, but it will take some preparation to ensure that your cat adjusts to the new arrival. Cats do not always respond well to change, so it is important to be proactive and begin the process early.
Before the Baby Arrives
Make Gradual Changes
Spend plenty of time with your cat in the months leading up to the birth. Get your cat used to being touched more often and become more attuned to their likes and dislikes. Avoid playing hand games with your cat, and teach them that only toys are appropriate for play.
Get Your Cat Used to Baby Sounds
Play recordings of babies gurgling, cooing, and crying throughout the day. Start quietly and increase the volume as your cat gets used to the new sounds.
Introduce Baby Smells and Objects
Cats rely heavily on smell, so a new baby and new objects can offend their senses. Bring powders, shampoos, and formula into your home to help your cat adjust. Placing baby products on your own skin can help your cat develop positive associations with the new smells.
Prepare Your Cat for Handling by a Baby
Some cats love to be petted, while others do not. Be ready to intervene when your baby becomes more mobile to avoid the baby disturbing or grabbing your cat.
Set Up Baby-Only Surfaces with Sticky Tape
For your baby’s safety, it is important that your cat doesn’t form a habit of sleeping in baby-only areas like the crib and changing table. Cats don’t like sticky surfaces, so you can lay double-sided tape around your baby’s crib and changing table so your cat learns to steer clear.
Change Caregiver Roles
If you have always been the primary caregiver for your cat, it is wise to start turning over some of those duties to your partner now. That way, your cat doesn’t end up feeling like you’re rejecting them after your baby comes or blaming the baby for the sudden change.
After the Baby Arrives
Give Your Cat Quiet Time to Reconnect and Investigate
When you first arrive home from the hospital, peacefully greet your cat in a quiet room without interruption. Once you've had a few minutes to reconnect, let in everyone else. Place a used receiving blanket or piece of infant-wear in a quiet area where the cat can investigate it.
Maintain Your Cat's Normal Routine
Try to maintain some of your cat’s normal routine after your baby comes home. Don’t kick them out of their favourite spots in the house to make room for baby stuff.
Provide Safe Places for Your Cat to Retreat
Newborns can be overstimulating for adults, so imagine how intense the experience is for solitary cats! Make sure your cat has a few areas in your home that are “for cats only”, kept free of baby items and away from all the chaos. You may also want to provide one or two places that are off the floor, since cats tend to feel safer when they’re high up.
Be Patient with Any Rebellious Behaviour
Cats can get jealous, and it’s possible that your cat could display signs of aggression toward your baby because of it. Be prepared to handle any rebellious behaviour with patience, not punishment.
Always Supervise Interactions
Even as your cat and baby get used to one another, you shouldn't leave them alone together. To prevent any accidents, use a screen door to let your cat see and hear the baby without investigating unattended. Toddlers can be especially stressful for cats, so maintain supervision as your baby grows.
Keep Up with Your Cat's Basic Hygiene Needs and Play Time
You won’t have a ton of time for grooming, treating, and playtime in the newborn days, but you can’t completely ignore your cat’s needs either. Even if you can only commit to a 10-minute play session instead of a 30-minute one, it’s better than nothing.
With a little preparation and know-how, your fur baby and your human baby can happily live together. Like any good mediator, you’ll have to broker some peace between your “kids” and give both your baby and your kitty the tools needed for successful cohabitation.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several things you can do to prepare your indoor cat for the arrival of your newborn baby. You can play recordings of babies crying, gurgling, and screaming to get your cat used to the new sounds. You can also bring baby powders, shampoos, and formula into your home so your cat can adjust to the new smells. It is also important to make gradual changes to your home and spend plenty of time with your cat to help it adjust to life with a baby.
Toxoplasmosis is a parasite that can spread from cats to humans and cause health conditions such as blindness, deafness, or hydrocephalus. To prevent the spread of this parasite, keep your cat indoors and away from outdoor or stray cats. Be sure to wear gloves when handling litter boxes or gardening, and avoid scooping litter if you're pregnant.
When you first arrive home with your newborn baby, set aside some quiet time for your cat to peacefully greet and investigate the baby without interruption. Allow your cat to sniff the baby's foot while wearing a sock that has been pet on by the cat, so it identifies the baby as part of the family. Continuously praise your cat when it behaves in a confident and calm manner around the baby.
If your cat seems stressed by the presence of your newborn baby, provide it with safe places to retreat and relax, away from the baby. Make sure your cat has a litter tray in a quiet area that your baby cannot access. Maintain a regular routine for your cat and stick to its established feeding and grooming times as much as possible.
Never leave your baby unattended with your cat, even if your cat has a good temperament. Keep your baby's crib and other sleeping areas off-limits to the cat, as newborns cannot move their heads and a cat may accidentally suffocate them. Always keep the door closed when you cannot immediately supervise your baby and cat together.