There are plenty of old wives tales around that convince people
that because they are pregnant, this means they need to give up their
cat because of the risks to the baby. But the reality is that with some
precautions taken during pregnancy and careful introduction of baby and
cat, the process can be straightforward and successful.
Pets
Before the birth
The
biggest thing to remember is that the biggest risk to a pregnant lady
from a cat is from a parasitic infection called toxoplasmosis. This can
result in miscarriage, stillbirth or a number of birth defects including
blindness, deafness, hydrocephalus or even epilepsy. The cat can become
infected with these parasites by eating a bird or small mammal so the
best way to avoid this is to keep the cat indoors. It also makes it not
an ideal time to take in a stray cat or a new cat from a shelter.
Pets
Toxoplasmosis
cysts are also shed through the faeces of an infected animal so it is
important to wear gloves when gardening in case a cat has used the
garden as a litter tray. Also, do the same when washing raw fruit and
vegetables, handling raw meat or scrubbing food preparation areas. If
you are cleaning out the cat litter, the gloves are also essential for
doing this job.
Pets
On the personality side, some cats don't take to
any changes and this can come to the fore when the lady of the house is
pregnant. It is important to help adjust the cat to the presence of a
baby beforehand and by playing tapes of baby noises is a good way to do
this. Get them used to baby lotion by rubbing it onto your hands and
then doing things like rubbing the cat in their favourite way or
cuddling with them - this helps associate the smell with good things.
Avoid encouraging them from becoming too happy sitting in the cot or the
changing table as this may lead them to sit on the baby when it comes.
Pets
After the birth
When
you first come home with your new baby, make sure you greet the cat and
fuss it without any interruptions. After a few minutes quiet time, let
everyone else in, including the baby and visitors. The cat will likely
behave in their normal way, either staying to greet the visitors or
leaving the room and returning when things settle down.
Pets
At this
point, put down a receiving blanket or a piece of the baby's clothing in
a quiet spot for the cat to investigate. When you are nursing, allow
the cat to approach and see what is going on and come into the nursery,
as long as he doesn't jump into the crib. Cats will seek out another
warm body to curl up with so left alone may curl up with the baby and
could lead to breathing difficulties. This means it is best to keep the
nursery door closed when you aren't there, or put a screen up so the cat
can't get in but you can hear what's happening.
Pets
Once the baby is
settled for the night, make sure you spend the time with the cat that
you would normally do so they don't feel left out or jealous of the
baby.
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