Hey hun.. Just found this info on another thread n thought you might find it useful/helpful...
[h=1]Prepare Your Pet For
Baby[/h]Shelter workers report that many people who surrender their pets to animal
shelters cite a new baby as the reason why they must give up their pet. Yet many
other families have successfully brought a new baby into their home and still
been able to keep and enjoy their animal friends. What is the secret to their
success?
Experts suggest that preparing for the baby's arrival well in advance and
taking a few simple precautions can avoid friction and jealousy between your
human baby and your furry one.
Remember, your four-footed children are accustomed to your undivided
attention and pampering. Some jealousy will naturally surface when your new
infant suddenly consumes all of your time! Plan to set aside a few minutes each
day for special quality time with your pet. Some extra attention and a few
treats can go a long way toward avoiding behaviour problems and jealousy
Dogs & Cats are largely creatures of habit. Though your own routine will be completely disrupted by the new baby, try to keep your pet's routine as normal as possible. If you anticipate changes in that routine, such as restricting their access to the baby's room or feeding in a new location, begin implementing the changes as soon as possible before the infant comes home.
Animals, like humans, find comfort in routine, so having an established
pattern on which to fall back will help combat the insecurity your pet will
naturally feel during the first few weeks after baby's arrival. Along the same
lines, allow your pet to get used to some of the new baby smells before you
bring your infant home
Apply baby lotion or powder to your hands, for example, and allow your pet to
sniff baby's clothes and blankets. If possible, allow him to investigate an
article of clothing or blanket worn by the new baby prior to the infant's
arrival from the hospital. Animals rely heavily on their sense of smell, so
familiarity with the baby's smell will help your cat recognise him as part of
the family when he comes home
When you finally arrive home with your new baby, greet your pet happily and
tell him how much you missed him; though you have been busy with other things,
you can be sure that he's been missing you! Gently introduce him to the baby so
he can get a good look at the new family member
.From that point forward, include him in as many baby activities as possible.
Even saying his name while you're changing nappies or feeding your infant will
make your cat feel like an important part of this new life. Most behaviour
problems pets exhibit after a new baby's arrival stem from jealousy and
neglect.
By paying special attention to your pet, preparing him in advance and
including him as much as possible after baby comes home, you can avoid such
problems and ensure a harmonious household.