Cats and children

You love your child and your cat. With good preparation and some ground rules, you can make sure your child and the cat become the best of friends.

Do children and cats get along well?

Children love cats. What is more, growing up with a cat is very good for them. They learn to respect animals and develop a sense of responsibility. Cats in turn are usually fond of children, especially because of their high voices and their love of cuddling.

How do I prepare my child for the arrival of a cat?

Make the match a success by preparing thoroughly:

• Take your child along to the introduction visit at the shelter or breeder.
• Tell your child about the cat now: what does the animal need and why?
• Show your child the cat's belongings and explain what they are for.
• Give your child some guidelines on how to interact with the cat: what she likes and what she does not.

House rules for child and cat

Are house rules too strict? No, not at all. Think of them as a tool to help your child and your cat become the best of friends.

Rules to go over with your child in advance:

• When does the cat enjoy being stroked? When does she not?
• Do not wake the cat when she is sleeping.
• The cat prefers to be left alone when she is in her own spot.
• You do not like being disturbed on the toilet. Neither does the cat when she is using the litter box.
• If the cat comes towards you, she is seeking contact. Do not follow her when she walks away.
• Talking to the cat is fine, but do not shout at her.
• Cuddle the cat freely, but do not grab her tail.

Can I leave my cat and child alone together?

Do not leave your cat and child alone together at first. Always be there to supervise. Once your cat and child have got used to each other, you can leave them alone in some situations — only if your child is old enough and you have an adult cat. Even then it depends on the character of both child and animal.

Can I let my child care for the cat?

Although a cat is a wonderful friend for a child, you as a parent remain ultimately responsible for her care. You can of course involve your child in looking after the animal — it is very educational. Take the opportunity to teach your child about cats and animals in general.

Is your child old enough to understand that being too rough with a cat is not fun for the cat? Then you can let your child brush the cat. This helps them build a close bond together.

A cat and a baby — does that work?

A baby turns your world upside down — but also your cat's. Cats are very independent and can withdraw well when things get a bit too busy for them. Make sure your cat has her own spot in a quiet place in the house. She must not be disturbed there.

The cat may sometimes be startled by your baby's crying. Talk calmly to your cat at such moments. She will learn that the crying is not a threat.

Your cat also needs to accept the newcomer in her territory. Let her get used to the smell of your baby — hold a baby blanket in front of the cat for her to sniff, for example. And very importantly: give your housecat enough attention even once the baby has arrived.