Bringing a new baby into your house can be a stressful time for your pets.

Most cats and dogs like routine and are happy in their habits.  When a new baby arrives everything in your pets life is thrown into turmoil.

Not only do they not get the same amount of attention, there are new smells and noises to contend with.  Remember your pets have highly sensitive senses of smell and hearing so these things are a much bigger deal for them.   

A gradual change in the home environment is much less likely to stress your pets.  Stressed pets can develop aggressive behavior, or they can react nervously and start toileting around the house, or they may just develop depression. 

There are ways to introduce your pets to the arrival of a new baby slowly that will reduce the impact and stress. 

Begin by introducing the baby furniture and toys.  Establish guidelines with your pet about what they are not allowed to play with.  For instance, you will want to ensure that your cat does not sleep in the babies bassinet or buggy.  It is much easier to convince your cat of this over time and not in the panic of worrying if your baby has been smothered!

Use baby products around the house to introduce the new smells.  Get your pets into a routine that will work with your baby schedule.  You might have to change feeding times, or dog walking times to suite the new schedule. 

Have friends with babies around to accustom your pets of the noises a baby makes.  You may have to gradually reduce the time you spend with you pets if they have been accustomed to receiving all your attention.  Designate a safe zone in your house for your cat or dog.  A place where they can escape to and feel secure. 

Once your baby arrives make sure you set aside time to make a fuss of your pets.  Make extra effort to give them treats in the initial days.  Try and keep their established routines in place.   Allow your pets to discover your baby in their own time, without being forced to interact with the baby.  Do not shun your pet whenever you have the baby around, but try and allow them to interact with your baby under supervision.

Tags: Cat Dog Pet New Baby Jealous Of Baby Stress Fear Of Baby Pets And Ba

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