Introducing Your Baby to Your Cat
Here are RCD we have an “office” cat named Apollo. Like most office cats, he enjoys sitting where he shouldn’t- like on my chest while I’m trying to type, or in boxes entirely too small for him. He also enjoys spending time knocking my pens and papers off my desk. And sleeping tucked into my bed like the baby he truly is.
Apollo joined us after we had all of our children, and he acclimated very well. We didn’t have to worry about adding a new tiny baby with the cat around since our youngest was 6 when he joined our family.
Sometimes, though, adding a baby to a house with a cat can be tricky. Especially with a newborn. With some planning and consideration, though, you can try to make the process as smooth and harmonious as possible for your sweet kitty.
Some tips for introducing your baby to your cat:
- Ask a friend or family member with a young child or baby to make some short visits so your kitty can get used to small people, for short periods of time
- Allow your furry one to explore all of the new baby gear, set up in the space, as it will be when your baby arrives home.
- Consider offering treats when your cat explores the gear safely to create a positive association.
- Consider setting up the baby’s space in an area where your feline friend does not spend much time.
- Provide a safe space for your cat to retreat if desired.
- When your baby is born, send someone home with your baby’s blanket or hat. Consider creating that positive association with your cat while they investigate.
- When your baby arrives home, keep interactions brief and positive.
Remember that every cat is unique, and their response to a new baby can vary. Some cats warm up to new humans, even tiny ones, immediately. Some need a patient and gradual approach to adapt to the new addition to the family. With some time, love, and maybe some baby boundaries, most cats can acclimate to the presence of a newborn and continue to be loving members of the household.
What other tips and tricks worked for you? How did you introduce your cat to your newborn?
