Preparing your cat for your new baby - 10 things to think about

If you are expecting a baby - congratulations. Here are some things to think about.

Smells - pop a bit of baby lotion on your arm so your cat gets used to the smell.

Start stopping your cat accessing your baby’s room early - it can cause frustration if this is done straight away.

Baby equipment such as Moses baskets, buggy and high chair should be introduced asap and allow your cat to smell them.

Your cat will need somewhere to retreat to - ramps up to shelves and cat trees allow a cat to move away.

Baby gates can be excellent tools so that your child cannot access your cat.

Allowing your child to have their own cat toy, that they can practice stroking can help redirect them - toddlers grab and this can be very painful for cats.

If you or your partner play with your cat with your feet and hands - stop this now as your cat could do it on a childs thin skin.

Ensure you cat has a safe space where they can retreat to where no one can bother them.

You can play baby sounds to help them get used to the sounds of crying.

Be in the know about body language - here are some great videos.

If you need any help, please take a look at my educational sessions.