Children and animals often share a special bond, but introducing a pet to a new baby can come with challenges. If a pet was part of the family before the baby arrived, it might feel jealous of the new attention the baby is receiving.
The pet might also be unsure how to behave around the baby. On the other hand, the baby might initially be too rough with the pet as they learn appropriate behavior. With patience and training, however, a baby and pet can develop a close friendship.
When a baby joins the household, there are additional considerations to keep in mind. Safety is paramount: Is it safe to have a pet at home with the baby? How will the pet react to the baby, and how will the baby interact with the pet? The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offers valuable advice on helping your baby and cat get along.
The ASPCA suggests introducing the cat to a quiet room without interruptions. After spending some one-on-one time with the cat, gradually introduce the baby and other family members.
Place a blanket or piece of clothing that belongs to the baby in a quiet spot for the cat to explore. Additionally, ensure that the baby’s sleeping area is off-limits to the cat. Since babies cannot turn over, a cat might cuddle too close to the baby’s face, potentially obstructing their breathing. Keeping the cat out of the baby’s sleeping area also prevents the cat from marking the space with urine. Spend quality alone time with your cat to prevent jealousy.
Lemisie, a cat whose owner was initially concerned about his reaction to the new baby, quickly proved to be an affectionate and attentive companion.
Captured in a heartwarming video, Lemisie’s interaction with the baby showcased their budding friendship. The video’s caption reads, “Cats want a lot of affection, but babies need it even more.
That’s why a cat might get jealous when there’s a new child in the house. However, Lemisie adores his new buddy and comes running every time he makes a sound. This adorable video shows the beginning of their precious friendship.”
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In the video, Lemisie can be seen sniffing and gently licking the baby’s head as if grooming his own kitten. At one point, the baby looks up at the cat but then puts his head back down, allowing Lemisie to continue his affectionate grooming.
The baby’s smile and grip on the cat’s paw indicate his enjoyment. This delightful interaction is a testament to their developing bond, showing that with a bit of time and care, pets and babies can become the best of friends.