A new baby changes everything in a pet’s world: routines, attention, smells and noises. Starting preparations during pregnancy makes the transition much smoother and keeps everyone safe.
Months before the birth
- Book a vet check to make sure your pet is healthy, vaccinated and free of parasites, see how to protect your pet from fleas, ticks and other pests.
- Change routines gradually now, not on the day you come home: walk times, who feeds the pet, and where it sleeps.
- Reduce attention slightly if your pet is used to constant attention, so it does not suddenly lose it all.
- Set up the nursery early and decide whether the pet will be allowed in. A baby gate keeps the room off-limits while letting the pet see and hear.
- Train or refresh cues: sit, stay, down, leave it, and go to a mat or bed. Loose-leash walking matters if you will walk with a stroller, see how to stop a dog from pulling on the leash.
- Address problem behaviors like jumping or guarding toys and food, with a certified trainer or behaviorist if needed.
Sounds, smells and objects
- Play recordings of baby crying at low volume while giving treats, gradually raising the volume.
- Use baby lotion and powder so the smells become familiar.
- Practice with the stroller, crib and baby swing so they are not frightening.
- Teach your dog that baby toys are off-limits and give it its own toys.
Bringing the baby home
- Send a blanket the baby has used home from the hospital before you arrive, so the pet can sniff it.
- Greet your pet first without the baby, since it has missed you.
- Then let a calm, leashed dog sniff the baby from a short distance while someone holds the baby, and reward calm behavior.
- Let cats approach in their own time.
Safety rules
- Never leave a baby or young child alone with any pet, even a gentle one, and even for a moment.
- Keep pets out of the crib and bassinet.
- Watch for warning signs of stress: lip licking, yawning, turning away, stiffening, growling, hissing or hiding. Give the pet a quiet retreat.
- As the baby grows, teach the child not to pull ears or tails, not to disturb a sleeping or eating animal, and not to hug dogs.
Pregnancy and cats
Cat feces can carry toxoplasmosis, which can harm an unborn baby. During pregnancy, have someone else clean the litter box daily, or wear gloves and wash hands thoroughly, and keep cats indoors. See how to clean a cat’s litter box.
Keep giving your pet attention
Short walks, play and cuddles when the baby is asleep help your pet associate the baby with good things. If your pet shows ongoing stress or any aggression, consult your vet or a certified behaviorist promptly.
