I often reassure them that if a few simple adjustments are made both the cat and the baby will do wonderfully. The most common concern is whether there is a risk of a cat sleeping with and smothering a baby. Pediatricians have strict recommendations for the type of bed and blankets used, as well as never placing stuffed animals or other toys in the bed with babies or small children. Because of the risk of suffocation, it is never acceptable to allow a cat in the bed of a child under three years of age. In our own home our cats are not allowed into the children s bedrooms and there is a door that can be closed to keep them out at night.
Some cats have difficulty adjusting to a new baby initially.
The new parents are often busy, tired, and focused on the new baby. The cat that was once the center of all the attention has now taken a back seat to the new baby. By anticipating this and the potential problems that could arise, a pet owner should try to lessen the shock by slowly introducing new baby furniture, blankets, etc over a period of time. After the arrival of the baby make sure you set aside time every day to groom and play with the cat. The adjustment period may take a month or longer but almost all cats adjust after a short while.