Cats And Infants

Cats and infants can certainly coexist but it is best if the contact is restricted. Although a human infant is much too large for a cat to mistake for prey there are other concerns. An infant is not capable of pushing a cat away and there is a danger that a bay might be accidentally suffocated by a cat that snuggles up to it in the crib. For this reason cats should not be left alone with babies.

If you are pregnant don’t let the cat sleep on the items of baby furniture you bring into the house. Get it used to new sleeping arrangements before the baby arrives.

Accustom the cat to the regular routine of feeding, play and grooming. Be realistic about how much time you will have for your pet once the baby arrives and share the responsibility with the family. Cats are naturally curious. When the baby comes home allow the cat to see and smell it. Let it satisfy its curiosity about the baby.

For more information on introducing children to animals visit www.barneys-child-development-guide.com

For more information on cat play and health Click cats and infants