Guides and tips
How to prepare your pet for the arrival of a baby
The arrival of a baby is a significant change for the whole family, including your pets. Proper preparation can help all pets adjust smoothly to the new reality. Below are specialized tips for each type of pet.
Guides and tips
Preparing your cat for the arrival of the baby
Preparing your cat for the arrival of a baby requires time and patience, as cats are particularly sensitive to changes in their environment. It's important to start the preparation process before the baby’s birth, allowing the cat to get used to the new smells and sounds that the baby will bring. Gradually introducing these changes and creating a safe space for your cat in the home can reduce stress and help with the smooth transition. With the right preparations, your cat will be able to adjust to the new situation without major upheavals.
Introducing new smells and sounds
Smells: Your cat relies on its strong sense of smell to perceive the world around it. Therefore, introducing new smells should be done gradually to reduce its stress. For example, use baby lotions or shampoos and apply them to your hands before interacting with your cat. This way, it will associate this new smell with positive experiences and not perceive it as a threat.
Sounds: Exposure to sounds such as the baby’s crying and laughter is also crucial. Start with recordings at a low volume and gradually increase the sound as the cat gets used to it. We recommend doing this exercise every day for 5-10 minutes and observing your cat’s reaction. If you see it becoming stressed, lower the volume or exposure and return to it when it’s more comfortable.
With respect for its independence, gradual introduction of changes, and maintaining familiar calming spots, we help the cat feel secure and adapt without stress.
Training and socialization
Limiting access: If your cat is used to being in various areas of the house, discourage it from jumping on the baby’s furniture (such as cribs, bassinets, or other baby items). Use gentle methods like “yes” or “no” to train it to avoid these spots. You can also use deterrents (such as special tapes or sprays that cats dislike) to guide it.
Gradual exposure to children: If your cat is not accustomed to the presence of children, organize short visits from friends or relatives with children. Initially, keep the cat at a distance, observing its reactions. Help it get used to the loud noises, movements, and energy that typically accompany children.
Gradual changes in routine, creating safe spaces, and respecting its pace help the cat adjust smoothly and accept the baby without pressure.
Adapting the environment
Preparing the baby’s room: It’s important to allow your cat to explore the baby’s room before the baby arrives at the house. Help it get used to the new furniture and items that will be there. The room should remain free of items that could cause fear or stress for the cat. Give it time to explore and feel that it is part of its home.
Creating a safe space: To reduce the cat’s stress, create a safe space away from the baby’s room. This could be a high shelf where the cat can enjoy its peace without worrying about what’s happening around it. Make sure this space is equipped with its favorite toys and bed so it associates it positively.
First meeting with the baby
Introducing the smell: Before the baby arrives at the house, you can introduce the baby’s scent through clothes or blankets that have been used by the baby. Let the cat smell and examine them at its own pace. This will help it get used to the new scent without feeling intimidated by the baby’s presence.
Rewarding positive behavior: When the cat remains calm near the baby, reward it with treats or petting. This strengthens the positive connection between the cat and the baby, helping to create a safe environment for both.
Guides and tips
Preparing your dog for the arrival of the baby
Preparing your dog for the arrival of a baby starts well before the birth. Dogs, with their strong need for routine and their excellent sense of smell, can be affected by the new situations in the home, such as changes in habits and the presence of the baby. Begin the preparation early so your dog can get used to the new smells, sounds, and changes in routine, as well as understand the boundaries within the home. With the right preparation and gradual adjustment, your dog will be able to accept and love the new family member without stress or fear.
Introducing new smells and sounds
Smells: Use the products you plan to use for the baby, such as baby lotions or creams, so your dog can get used to the new smells before the baby arrives. Apply these products to your hands or clothes and allow your dog to smell them. This will help with the gradual acceptance of the baby.
Sounds: Just like with cats, your dog should be prepared for sounds such as the baby’s crying. Start with low-volume recordings and gradually increase the volume. Practice with your dog, offering it treats or playing with it, so it associates these sounds with something positive.
First meeting with the baby
Calm introduction: When the baby arrives at home, keep your dog on a leash and allow it to observe from a safe distance. Avoid any sudden movements and let the dog approach at its own pace. If the dog shows signs of anxiety, give it time to calm down.
Supervision during all interactions: Never leave the dog and the baby alone together, especially in the first few days. Ensure that all interactions are calm and positive and closely monitor the dog's behavior.
Positive encouragement: Positive encouragement is key to helping your dog understand the proper behavior around the baby. When you observe calm behavior, reward it with treats or petting. This will help your dog associate the baby with pleasant experiences.
The smooth integration of the baby into the dog's life begins with prevention through routine adjustment, learning boundaries, and positive reinforcement to help the dog feel safe and stable.
Routine adjustment
Changes to the schedule: The dog usually associates its daily routine with specific times for walks and meals. With the arrival of the baby, these routines will change, so it’s important to prepare your dog early. Start adjusting its schedule several weeks before the baby’s arrival, so it doesn’t feel like something significant has suddenly changed in its daily life.
Training basic commands: Before the baby arrives, reinforce your dog’s behavior with basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "leave it." Reinforce positive behavior with treats and praise to help with obedience and ensure that the dog will follow commands when needed around the baby.
Familiarization with new smells and sounds, combined with training in basic commands and reinforcement of calmness, helps the dog accept the baby without stress or overstimulation.
Adapting the environment
Introducing baby equipment: Place the baby’s furniture and toys in the house before the baby arrives. Allow the dog to examine and smell them without giving them extra attention. This will help the dog get used to the new items and see them as part of its daily environment.
Creating a calming space: Your dog needs its own space to retreat and relax. Create a designated area where it can rest, away from the baby’s toys or other areas that may cause stress. Use this space to help your dog regain its calm, especially in the first few days with the baby in the house.
Guides and tips
Common problems and how to handle them
The adjustment of a pet to the presence of a newborn can bring to the surface behaviors that you may not have noticed before. It is perfectly normal to experience tensions, questions, or even challenges. The positive aspect is that with a methodical approach and empathy, most of these problems can be prevented or dealt with effectively.
Jealousy or anxiety
The arrival of a new family member can trigger feelings of jealousy or anxiety in your pet, especially if it was previously used to being the center of attention. Animals are very observant and can detect the shift in attention and care.
What you can do:
Dedicate some quality time every day just for your pet, even if it’s only 10-15 minutes. This can include a short walk, playtime, petting, or training with treats. For example, if your dog is accustomed to sitting on the couch with you, don’t completely deny this routine. Instead, try to maintain it in a safe manner, even with the baby present. For your cat, continue offering routine, quiet spaces, and safe spots so it can maintain its sense of security and control in its area.
The cat is avoiding the baby
Cats usually need more time to accept new presences in the home and often choose to keep their distance. If your cat avoids the baby or seems hesitant, this is normal.
What you can do:
Don’t force it to approach or "meet" the baby. Instead, let it move at its own pace. You can help with the familiarization by bringing baby items (such as a blanket) near the cat's usual spot. Also, reinforce every time the cat gets closer or shows neutral behavior with treats or a calm tone of voice. If the cat hides or seems stressed, ensure it has access to quiet, elevated, or hidden areas where it feels safe.
Overstimulation in dogs
Some dogs are naturally more energetic, impatient, or have difficulty calming down in response to new, stimulating situations, such as the baby’s crying, the smell of new items, or increased movement around the house.
What you can do:
Work on basic self-control commands like "sit," "stay," "go to your bed," or "leave it," so your dog learns to manage stimuli calmly. You can use a specific spot in the house (e.g., a mat or cushion) where you guide the dog to go when you want it to relax. Always reward good behavior with treats, praise, or a favorite toy. Try to drain the dog’s energy during the day with walks and mental stimulation so it doesn't have excess energy during the baby’s quiet time.
With proper preparation from the start and a steady routine, we can prevent jealousy or anxiety and handle any difficulties with calmness, reinforcing our pet’s positive behavior.
Guides and tips
The benefits of pet and baby coexistence
The presence of a pet in the home with the arrival of a baby can prove to be very positive, not only for the baby but for the whole family. With the right preparation and supervision, coexistence can offer significant benefits both to the child and the pet.
Enhancement of the child's emotional development
Babies growing up with pets tend to develop empathy and responsibility earlier. Even from infancy, contact with a warm and friendly dog or cat helps create positive emotional experiences.
Strengthening the immune system
Children growing up with pets are less prone to allergies and asthma, according to several studies. Early exposure to specific bacteria seems to strengthen the body’s defenses.
Reduction of stress
Studies have shown that animals can calm a restless baby, especially when there is a gentle and steady presence. The purring sound of a cat or the calm behavior of a dog often acts as a “natural lullaby.”
Make sure that the introduction of the pet and baby is gradual and always under supervision. Give equal importance to both the child's safety and the pet's calmness, in order to build a harmonious relationship from the start.
Guides and tips
Pet involvement in daily life with the baby
One of the most important elements in successful coexistence is the integration of the pet into the new daily routine. When the pet feels that it continues to be a part of the family, the chances of jealousy or aggression are reduced.
Avoid isolation or punishment in front of the baby If unwanted behaviors arise, address them calmly and consistently, always reinforcing positive behavior.
Inclusion in routines
During walks with the baby in the stroller, you can bring your dog along. If you have a cat, you can let it sit nearby when you’re breastfeeding or changing diapers, always under supervision.
Reinforcing positive associations
When you do something pleasant with the baby, offer the pet its own “bonus,” such as a treat, petting, or play. This way, it will gradually associate the baby’s presence with something positive.
Assigning roles
Give your pet a “role,” such as “the baby’s guardian” or “the mom’s helper.” It can be something simple, like sitting calmly next to you while you put the baby down for a nap. This gives it a sense of purpose and stability.
Guides and tips
Boundaries and safety for all
Safety is the most crucial factor in the coexistence of a baby and a pet. Boundaries must be clear, but not authoritarian. Creating a calm, predictable environment benefits both the baby and the pet.
Safe zones
Create spaces where only the pet or only the baby has access. For example, the cat can have its own shelf or high spot, while the dog can have a comfortable bed in a quiet area.
Limiting interactions
Never leave the baby and the pet unsupervised, even if the pet seems completely calm. Also, encourage the pet to approach only when allowed.
Cleanliness and hygiene
Ensure hygiene for both the baby and the pet. Food bowls, litter boxes, and toys should not be in the same area as the baby’s items.
Train the pet from an early stage not to climb into the crib or other “sensitive” areas. If necessary, use physical barriers (e.g., baby gates) for clear boundaries without creating tension.
Guides and tips
Myths and misconceptions
The coexistence of babies and pets has been questioned due to misconceptions, which unfortunately often lead to abandonment or isolation of pets.
Myth
"The cat will suffocate the baby if it sleeps near them"
Truth
There is no scientific study supporting the idea that a cat will suffocate a baby. In reality, cats typically seek warmth and comfort, but there is no reason to believe they will harm the baby.
The important thing is to ensure that the baby sleeps in a safe environment, such as a crib or bed that does not allow the cat access without supervision. If the cat and baby are in the same room, it is good to monitor the cat to ensure it does not approach the baby dangerously.
Instead of removing the pet, you can train it and show it trust. If something concerns you, it's a good idea to speak with experts and avoid rumors.
With respect to personal spaces and gradual familiarization with the new member, the cat can adjust and live harmoniously with the baby.
Myth
"The dog will get jealous and may become aggressive"
Truth
Jealousy is a natural emotional reaction, but it does not mean the dog will necessarily become aggressive. The dog may show signs of insecurity or distress initially when the baby enters its life, but this does not equate to aggression.
With proper training, gradual familiarization, and positive reinforcement, most dogs not only accept the baby but also develop a protective role and become loyal companions. Patience and the gradual introduction of the baby into the dog’s daily routine help in smooth adaptation and strengthen their bond.
Guides and tips
When not to bring a new pet into the home with a baby
The decision to bring a new pet into the home when there is a baby requires careful consideration. Adding a new pet to the family can offer many benefits, but the timing must be right to ensure the smooth adjustment of all family members, both human and non-human.
The baby is very young
The arrival of a baby is a period of significant change for the family and the pet. If the baby is an infant or very young, the need for constant attention and care may already be high. A new pet could add extra stress and responsibilities during this time.
Precautions
If the baby is very young, it may be best to delay bringing in a new pet until the baby is older and can interact more calmly and safely.
Financial or time constraints
Caring for a baby already requires a lot of time and energy, and caring for a new pet might be too demanding.
Precautions
Make sure you have the time, energy, and resources to offer the new pet the necessary care before deciding to bring it into the family.
There are already many pets at home
If you already have many pets, adding a new one could overwhelm the pet and the baby. Excessive pet concentration can create stress for the animals and reduce the quality of care you can provide for each one.
Precautions
Consider if you can manage the number of pets you have, offering consistent care and attention to each of them.
The pet is not socialized or has behavioral problems
If the existing pet is not socialized or has behavioral issues, such as aggression or anxiety, adding a new pet to the home may worsen the problems.
Precautions
Train and socialize the pet before deciding to bring a new one into the home. Ensure the pet can safely interact with family members and other animals.
Delay the decision to bring a new pet into the home until you are sure that the family and your pet have fully adapted to the new circumstances and that you have the ability to provide the necessary care for all.
Guides and tips
Advice for introducing other pets to the arrival of a baby
Smaller pets, although they do not require as immediate training as dogs and cats, are affected by changes in their environment. Noise, new smells, and changes in their routine can cause stress or behavior changes.
Rabbits and guinea pigs
What to watch for: These sensitive animals are easily affected by changes in their routine or environment. Avoid sudden changes in the placement of their cage, as well as increased stimuli (e.g. noise, frequent visitors). Place their cage in a quiet spot where they can feel safe, away from heavy traffic or loud noises.
How to manage it: If you notice signs of stress, such as decreased appetite, isolation, or nervousness, try to reinforce their routine with regular feeding times, gentle care, and avoiding additional changes. Adding nesting or hiding materials (e.g. tunnels or boxes) can help calm them down.
Do not suddenly change the position of the rabbit’s cage. Keep their routine stable and place the cage in a quiet area to reduce stress when the baby arrives.
Hamsters and other small rodents
What to watch for: Rodents are particularly sensitive to noise and light. If their cage is in a location where there will be increased activity due to the baby, consider gradually moving it to a quieter spot with low lighting. Avoid using loud household noises near their cage.
How to manage it: Watch for any unusual behavior (e.g. constant hiding or overexcitement). Reintroduce elements of their old routine and enhance their environment with enrichment items like wheels or natural materials for play. Calm and predictable behavior from humans is key.
Parrots and other birds
What to watch for: Parrots and most birds are very sensitive to loud sounds, voices, and changes in their schedule. Gradual exposure to recordings of baby crying or other new sounds can help reduce shock. Maintaining a consistent cage placement and daily care routine is crucial.
How to manage it: If you notice changes in vocal behavior (e.g. excessive chirping or silence), try to maintain the daily dialogue and activities you had with them. Using covers on the cage to reduce stimuli and keeping a simple, steady routine will provide calmness.
Reptiles
What to watch for: Most reptiles do not react as strongly to changes as mammals or birds, but they are sensitive to environmental factors such as temperature, lighting, and vibrations. Make sure the terrarium is placed in a stable spot, free from vibrations or excessive movement, and that the conditions inside remain exactly as they were before.
How to manage it: If you notice reduced appetite or lethargy, check the temperature and environmental conditions. Restoring quiet, thermal stability, and predictability in the terrarium is usually sufficient to return the reptile's behavior to normal.
Gradually introduce the parrot to baby sounds and continue to provide attention and interaction so it doesn’t feel neglected during the change in routine.
Guides and tips
Conclusion
Introducing a baby into the family’s daily life is one of the most significant changes, not only for the parents but also for the pet, which previously held a unique position in the family. Just like every other family member, the pet needs time, support, and gradual adjustment.
With ongoing care, daily interaction, and gentle adaptation, the pet will quickly understand that the arrival of the baby does not mean a loss of love or security. On the contrary, it may develop a new, important role in the family, evolving its relationship with the child into a tender and protective friendship as the child grows.
The key to a smooth transition is prevention, the gradual introduction of changes, and maintaining stability in your pet's environment. These tools will not only make the process easier but will also strengthen the bonds of love and loyalty among all family members, both two-legged and four-legged.
No matter the type of pet, adapting to the arrival of a baby does not need to be difficult or stressful. Understanding each animal’s needs and anticipating potential challenges will not only ensure their well-being but will also improve your daily life. A calm and stable environment for your pet guarantees that everyone in the house, humans and animals alike, will enjoy a harmonious and safe atmosphere.
