What it is
Will my dog be okay with the newborn? Will the cat sit on the baby? Introducing a pet to a new baby worries many parents. The adjustment is real but usually short. The risks that matter: a dog alone with a baby, a cat in the sleep space, and a pet who has shown aggression before.
What's typical
Most dogs are curious for a few days, then bored. Most cats hide, then ignore the baby. Full adjustment takes about two to four weeks. Dogs that were anxious or guarded food before the baby are the ones to plan for. Cats seek warm spots, so the crib is off-limits.
What's known
The AAP and the American Veterinary Medical Association both advise never leaving a baby alone with a dog, no matter how gentle. Most serious dog bites to infants involve family dogs.
What helps
- Bring home a blanket with the baby's smell before the baby comes home.
- Greet the pet without the baby first. Let the partner carry the baby in.
- Keep the pet's walks and feeding times the same.
- Never leave the baby on the floor or in a bouncer alone with a dog, even for a minute.
- If the dog growls, freezes, or stares at the baby, call a trainer now.
When to call someone
- Nowany bite or scratch to the baby's face or head. Go in.
- Todaya bite that breaks the skin, a red or swollen scratch, or a pet who snapped near the baby. Call the pediatrician.
- At your next visitask about safe sleep around pets if the pet sleeps in your room.
Who helps
Tools: Postpartum Prep Checklist
Related
- Pets, litter boxes, and pregnancyPregnancy: Your Body
- Newborn sleep and safe sleepBaby Basics
- Setting up home for postpartumSupport, Home, and Village
- When to call the pediatrician (and when to go in)Baby Basics
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Sources
- American Veterinary Medical Association — Introducing your pet to your new baby
- American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org) — Pets and babies, safety tips
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