How do I introduct my cat to a new baby?
Unlike with other cats, introducing a cat to a human baby is much easier than introduding your cat to another cat or a dog. The baby will likely smell similar to the rest of the family, so it might take as few as a day or two for your cat to become adjusted. Some helpful hints to introduce your cat and make the process easier:
- Don’t take away the cat’s "usual routine." Keep feeding and play time regular and don’t let your "other child" feel like the baby is replacing him or her.
- Don’t introduce the cat to the baby within the first day or two — let the cat smell the baby’s blanket (that has the baby’s smell on it) so that your cat can feel more familiar before the introduction.
- Trim your cat’s nails and hold him or her when introducing to the baby. Allow a quick sniff and then reward your kitty for politely meeting with the new baby. If your cat hisses or spits at the baby, you will need to keep the two separated and slowly reintroduce the baby’s smells until the cat has had a few days to become comfortable with the new family member.
- Until you have seen the cat react positively with the new baby, do not leave them alone together.
