How are Cats with newborn babies?

[Marie]

Having my first child in December. I have two cats who sleep with me every night. I was wondering what type of precautions we should take when the baby is sleeping in our room the first few weeks..... should I not let the cats in the room at this time? Also how about any day to day advice on cats with babies. I have one cat that is declawed and one that is not. I have heard things from people who find out I am pregnant about cats suffocating babies and stuff. I know about the cat litter so don't worry- my hubby is finally getting to have his share of the "dirty" work cleaning those litter boxes!

[davet]

first off wipe the cat sufficating babies right out of your mind....it is an old wives tale...as to how each individual cats do with babies, they all are different...you just have to give equal time to baby and cats, slow introductions, time spent with each....if your declawed cat has never used its claws in aggression then you should have no problem....but common sense and equal time are the most important...i used to have a hand out for this, if i can find it will post it...we've had 7 kids and always had a cat and there never was a conflict---except that we kept having babies but that wasn;t the cats fauylt....kwill check for that article

[Guest]

Marie, please read my topic "Please Help: Roscoe The Maine Coon Cat" about one cat's negative reaction to new babies in the household. He didn't hurt anyone, but didn't adapt well behavior-wise. I hope your kitties do better!