Expanding the family from just pets to human baby?
Here’s some tips and tricks of how to introduce your pet to your baby:
Pets are instinctive creatures, a lot of people say their pet knew they were pregnant before they did!
You might find that during your pregnancy; your pet becomes super clingy or that they become more protective over you, and that is completely normal. They know there is another member of the pack coming, and they want to help keep you and your baby safe!
During pregnancy, maintaining good hand hygiene around your pet is important, especially if you have a cat that uses a litterbox – certain bacteria found in cat litter can be harmful to the unborn baby in pregnancy, so try and delegate that task to someone else if you can!
1) Once you have bought your baby products like cribs, cots and strollers; it’s recommended towards the end of pregnancy that you put them out in the house somewhere, so your pets are allowed to sniff and get used to them. Pets are creatures of habit, and sudden changes to their routine can cause a lot of stress, so gradual introductions are a must. It’s just worth noting that smaller pets might think it’s a new item for them (the “if I fit, I sit” mentality), so it’s worth covering cribs with a blanket or sheet to keep them protected.
2) When you’re bringing baby home for the first time, if you have a dog, it’s recommended that someone take them for a walk first so they can burn off any extra energy and excitement they have. Take a vest or onesie you have used for baby in hospital and let your pet sniff it first – that’s how they are introduced to baby’s smell. Greet your pet without baby first – you are the one they are excited to see. Once they have calmed down, get them to sit and then you bring your baby to meet them. Don’t let your pet jump up to greet – it’s not a habit you want them continuing as your little one grows up. The first interaction only has to be a few seconds, and don’t forget to praise and reward any calm behaviour.
3) As your baby starts to find their own feet, it’s important that you set boundaries not just for your pet, but for your child too. Teaching them how to be gentle and respectful of your pet’s space is really important, that is something you can do together! It’s key to be able to recognise any signs of stress in your pet so you know if they are getting a bit overwhelmed means you can remove your baby from their space until they’re ready to try again later.
A new member of the family is an adjustment for everyone, so patience is key!
Hopefully this guide will help your baby and pet grow up together in harmony, a friendship that will last a lifetime.
