Cat and Baby

[Candice Michelle Albertson]

I'm pregnant for the second time. I adopted my himalayan, Ceaser, from the animal shelter shortly before I conceived my first time...he was approximately three years old at the time, so now 6. When I brought my daughters home from the hospital, (yes, twins.) Ceaser slept in the crib with them. All through my pregnancy, he was VERY close to me-guarding me while I showered, when I went to bed at night, ect. He doesn't act that way now, but he is very loving and tolerable to the two children I have already. I'm just concerned because there are now two more kittens in the home. Should I REALLY be worried about either of them sleeping in the crib? It wasn't a problem with Ceaser, he slept as far away from them as he could, and still be in the crib. I'm not concerned that he would hurt the baby in any way when I have it. My kittens on the other hand are only fond of my toddlers when they are sleeping, and barely at all then. (mostly, they just like to curl up in the foot of the beds, where the blankets bunch up) Should I be worried? I don't want the kittens to feel neglected or punished if they are are not allowed in the kids' room, but I also don't want to take any unnecesary chances. What do you think?

[Cheryl aka Purr]

I think you were lucky with Ceasar, its always safer to be more careful, evaluate the situations and gradually add freedom. Then I kind of go opposite to that bringing in a new kitty, have read best thing is to isolate the new kitty and do gradual introductions but have always immediately let the new one free and things have worked. Can you put a screen door on the kids room? see how they all react intially?

Pre digital camera days my uncle got a beautiful pic of his huge male German Shepherd sniffing their son when they brought him home.

[Candice Michelle Albertson]

The gate would keep the dog out of the room, but the kids and cats all know how to climb over it! I know what you mean about being lucky with a new kitten. They were both introduced to each and Ceaser with very fast results. The puppies both like to play with the girls, but are still a bit too rough, and definately have to be supervised around them.

That german shepherd must have been very sweet. My best friend's dog is part german shepherd, part wolf, and God forbid a baby cry in his presence...He will check the baby out himself, and growl at you for letting the baby get that way in the first place!

[Candice Michelle Albertson]

Oh, and I don't think I would be able to put up a screen door. Apartment, not my own house...which is hopefully coming soon!