Bringing a baby into the world is a time of great excitement. It’s important not to forget your four-legged friends though, and wise to prepare them for inevitable changes in their routine and surroundings when baby arrives.
PDSA Vet Olivia Anderson-Nathan says: “Growing up with a pet can be great for children’s mental and physical health. But to make sure the relationship between pets and children is successful, it’s important to make sure your pet’s experiences are positive too. With careful preparation and consideration, your pet should still feel that they have a secure place in the family.”
Early in your pregnancy check your pet’s vaccinations, worming and flea treatments are all up-to-date.
Gradually reduce the amount of attention you lavish on your pet. A sudden drop in attention when baby arrives could be unsettling and their behaviour could change as a result.
Try not to reduce the level of exercise your dog is getting, as this is essential for their mental and physical well-being. Bored dogs can develop unwanted behaviour.
If there are any rooms in the house that will become ‘pet free’ when baby is born, begin enforcing this well before the birth to help your pet acclimatise to the change. Similarly, bring the baby’s cot, play pen, highchair and other items into the home well in advance and supervise your pet while they take in the smells and sights of the new equipment. The more familiar they are with the items the better, as they won’t be worried or curious about them after your baby has arrived.
Create a den or provide a space your pet can retreat to when it all gets a bit too much. A cat tree, or accessible bed on a high shelf in a quiet room is also useful as some cats feel safest when they are up high.
Get them used to the sounds and smells involved with a baby. Use a socialisation CD or recording to play baby crying and fussing sounds so they’re not new to your pet when your baby arrives.
When your baby comes home for the first time, greet your pet in a quiet room with no interruptions. A baby should never be left unattended with any pet, so install safety gates well in advance to keep dogs out of certain areas. Cats can get through an open door very quickly and silently, so be mindful, and consider using a screen door or a tent that fits over the cot to prevent your cat from getting too close.
In association with PDSA Petsurance. www.pdsa.org.uk/petinsurance 0800 980 6000