Cats dislike anything sticky, so
placing cardboard with reverse sided
sticky tape will discourage your cat
from these areas. To ensure your cat
does not accidentally suffocate your
newborn, it is imperative your cat is kept
away from the baby’s sleeping area.
Create a newborn environment
Your cat or dog may find the sounds,
smells and routine changes of a
newborn difficult to adjust to. You can
prepare him or her for these changes
by introducing all the stimuli that might
occur when the baby comes home
in advance.
Place a baby mat on the ground and
do not allow your dog or cat to sit on
it, place baby swaddling in the pram,
again – do not allow your cat or dog
to sit in it, or jump up on it. Place baby
toys, baby bottles, nappies, soothers
and any other baby items you have on
the mat, do not allow your cat or dog to
touch these.
When the baby comes, it will save
you a lot of time sterilising items your
cat and dog have stolen from the baby!
Gradually decrease the amount of time
you spend with your dog and cat. Do
this well before the baby arrives so the
pet is already used to the change when
the baby comes home and is not put
out or jealous.
When baby arrives
If you are having your baby in hospital,
it’s a good idea to have your husband,
relatives or friends take some baby
blankets or worn clothes home for your
cat or dog to smell a few days before
the baby comes home. These items will
carry the baby’s scent and allow your
pet to familiarise him/herself with your
new babies’ smell.
Baby’s first introductions
It’s important that the first time your cat
or dog meets the baby it is positive and
non-threatening. When you first introduce
your new baby, ensure there are two
adults present – one to supervise the
baby and one to supervise your dog
or cat. Have one member of the family
greet the pet first and then introduce the
baby when your pet is calm and relaxed.
Allow your pet to safely investigate the
new baby and reward him/her for good
behaviour, so they develop a positive
association with the baby.
Don’t be surprised if your cat goes
into hiding when the baby arrives – this is
common. It’s a good idea to have a quiet
room to which your cat can escape.
In contrast, your dog will be more likely
to crave attention and not leave your side.
Creating a positive environment
Many pets experience the presence
of a baby as a time for inattention,
confinement, or even punishment.
The goal is to teach your dog and/
or cat that good things happen in the
presence of your baby. Reward your pet
for obedient, relaxed behaviour around
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