Preparing Pet for Addition to Family

By ELAINE ROSE Staff Writer, (609) 272-7215, erose@pressofac.com

For several years, your cat or dog has been your only "baby." Now you
and your spouse are expecting a child. Does that mean you have to get
rid of your pet or relegate it the outdoors?

Not at all. With a little advance planning, your feline or canine
will get along just find with the new little human, experts say.
Many women think they have to give away their cats when they get
pregnant, because cats can pass on toxoplasmosis, which can cause
serious birth defects. While this parasite is rare in the United
States, it can be found in the feces of cats who eat birds or mice.
It is also found in raw and undercooked meat meant for human
consumption.

An obstetrician can test a pregnant woman's blood for exposure to
toxoplasmosis. If it comes back positive, medication can be given
during pregnancy and to the baby soon after birth.
To reduce the risk of exposure, another member of the household
should take over litter-box duty. If that's not possible, wear rubber
gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning the litter.
Also, feed your cat only commercial cat food, and keep it inside
where it can't kill birds and mice.

Tips for getting pet baby-ready
Your dog or cat may resent someone else becoming the center of
attention, and some parents fear the pet will harm the baby. The
Humane Society of the United States suggests you start preparing your
pet before the new arrival comes. Here are some tips:

Encourage friends with infants to visit your home, so your pet gets
used to having babies around. Supervise all interactions, of course.

Get your pet used to the new sounds. Play recordings of a crying
baby, and turn on the mechanical infant swing. Put baby powder and
baby oil on your skin so your pet gets used to the smell. Give your
pet a treat to make it a positive association.

Take your pet to the veterinarian for a checkup and necessary
vaccinations.

Trim your pet's nails regularly.

Take your dog to obedience classes, so you can control its behavior
after the baby arrives.

If you're nervous about your newborn interacting with the family pet,
consult your veterinarian or pediatrician for advice.

If your pet won't be allowed in the baby's room, use a gate as a
barricade. This allows the pet to see inside the room and feel less
isolated from you and the baby.

When you come home from the hospital, greet your pet warmly. Allow
your pet to be near you while you care for the baby, and reward
appropriate behavior.

Source: Humane Society of the United States

To e-mail Elaine Rose at The Press:
ERose@pressofac.com

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/lifestyle/060103J01PETCARE.htm
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