The birth of a baby brings changes to the lives of everyone in your household, including the family pets. The sounds and smells of a new baby, in addition to a loss of attention from humans, can cause a cat stress, and a stressed animal may engage in unwanted behavior, such as soiling areas outside the litter box. The Human Society of the United States recommends taking steps months before the baby is born to help your cats adjust to the new arrival.
Before the Birth
Step 1
Bring your cats to a veterinarian to keep them up to date on vaccinations and ensure that they're in good health. Address any concerns about introducing your baby to cats with your veterinarian and obstetrician.
Step 2
Trim your cats' claws regularly to let them get used to having short nails.
Step 3
Allow your cats to explore the baby's nursery or sleeping area, but prevent them from becoming too comfortable in that part of the home. Place double-sided tape on the baby's furniture to keep your cats from jumping or sleeping on it.
Step 4
Invite friends and family members with infants to bring their children over to introduce your pets to the sight, smell and sound of babies. Apply baby lotion or baby powder to your hands and allow your cats to sniff them.
Step 5
Establish any changes in the cats' care routine, such as who is doing the feeding or the location of the food and water dishes, one or two months before the baby's birth. If a friend or family member will be caring for the pets while the parents are at the hospital, provide the cats with several weeks to bond with the new caregiver.
After the Birth
Step 1
Place a piece of the baby's clothing in a location of your home where your cats can examine it and get to know the baby's smell.
Step 2
Permit your cats to sit near you while you're holding the baby, but don't force them to approach.
Step 3
Allow well-behaved cats into the nursery when you're present. Close the nursery door or install a barrier gate when the baby is sleeping to prevent your cats from entering.
Step 4
Provide your cats with attention every day and maintain their feeding schedules to make the transition easier on your pets.
