Can Cats And Babies Get Along?

Isn’t it fun to see photos and videos of cats and babies together? We often talk about the protective instinct of dogs towards even very small children. Although there has always been a great deal of debate as to whether pets shouldn’t stay too close to children, especially without adult supervision.

However, it has been scientifically proven that they have a beneficial influence on the development of infants. Now, can cats and babies be together without problems? We will answer this question in the following article.

For many people, babies and children cannot coexist

There is a false myth concerning the possible coexistence between cats and babies. Let’s think, for example, when in a couple, the wife becomes pregnant. The dilemma of what to do with pets in the house immediately arises. But there is no problem with that, as these small domestic felines will soon make friends with new family members.

In addition to this, always in the relationship between cats and pregnancy, we must not forget the rumors about the risks of toxoplasmosis. It is a disease that cats can transmit to their mother and that can endanger her life, that of the baby or both. But that doesn’t mean all cats have it. Nor that, for the simple fact that an owner got pregnant, she has to “get rid” of her four-legged friends.

With the birth of the baby, one comes to think that the cat can damage him with his nails. Many think that domestic cats cannot control their strength, let alone their most “lethal” weapon: retractable claws. If you know these animals or are lucky enough to have one, you know that they are simple urban legends.

A properly tamed and socialized cat controls this and other instinctive behaviors. Furthermore, cats, as well as dogs, develop a special affection, as well as a protective instinct towards babies, which will motivate them to protect them and not harm them.

Cats can be great friends with babies

As is normal, all processes involve an approach stage, but this does not mean that it is impossible for cats and babies to live together. There is nothing more false! There are factors that can complicate the relationship: such as the territorial nature of the cat, the cries of the child that can accentuate it, changes in his routine. But everything can be solved with proper preparation:

1. Prepare the cat

The best way to prepare your cat for the baby’s arrival is to gradually get used to its noises. You might start by having him listen to screaming recordings, make him smell lotions, soaps, leave some baby toys on the floor and teach him not to touch them.

You could also put baby lotion on your body so that your cat begins to get used to this type of fragrance as it smells you. If you think that when the baby arrives you will have to change the cat litter box, bowls or drinking fountain, you should do it before the new family member appears in the house.

2. Don’t forget about him

The arrival of the baby is a real celebration for the parents. All attention will be paid to him and it will take a lot of intelligence on your part to maintain a certain balance in the relationship with your pet. You will have to continue to dedicate the same time to your four-legged friend, involving him and making him feel important. Take a moment to play with him and try to respect him, on a daily basis.

3. Get him used to the baby

With the help of another person, let the cat gently approach the baby, little by little, sniffing and even touching it. Don’t lose sight of it and keep them both under direct control. If you notice a strange or even hostile attitude, quickly move the animal away.

Allow him to get closer each day for a few seconds, to realize that the baby is another member of the family and that he will stay in the house forever. The domestic feline will have to learn to live with him.

As always, we remind you that with patience and a spirit of sacrifice, any result can be achieved. Indeed, it is also possible that your cat’s behavior may surprise you positively. Maybe it will adapt better and faster than you think to your beloved baby!