Want to know how to promote a harmonious relationship between your children and yourcat? The arrival of a new feline member to the family can be an enriching experience, but it can also raise certain concerns about safety and coexistence. Animal behaviour experts and veterinarians have put together essential tips to ensure that this relationship is positive for everyone, especially the little ones in the house.
Benefits of children and cats living together
Having a cat at home can be very beneficial for children. As pointed out in Mi Mascota y yo, several studies have shown that children who live with cats have higher self-esteem, better social skills and a greater ability to form relationships. However, this coexistence also comes with important responsibilities. It is essential to teach children how to interact safely and respectfully with their feline companion. On the other hand, interactions between children and cats should always be supervised by an adult and this type of interaction should be appropriate for the child’s age.
How to teach children to interact with cats?
It is crucial to teach children how to care for their cat and play with it appropriately. Hands or feet should never be used as toys for the cat, but rather appropriate toys such as posts or wands with strings. In addition, it is good practice to involve children in caring for the cat, such as feeding it, which will teach them the value of responsibility. It is also important for children to learn to understand their pet’s body language so they know when to stop touching or playing with it. Cats can become aggressive if they are not petted in the right way. Petting the cat by rubbing its cheeks, scratching its neck, or stroking its back are usually forms of contact that cats enjoy. If your cat is aggressive for no apparent reason, it is advisable to take it to the vet.
This way, you can avoid problems between children and cats
To avoid problems and possible fears in children, it is important that they do not make too much noise in the presence of the cat. Cats tend to shy away from commotion, as they are always alert to possible dangers. On the other hand, it is important to create a safe place for the cat, a corner where it can hide from noise and have peace and quiet. This place can be an elevated spot where your pet feels safe and relaxed.
When it comes to caring for your cat, it is essential that the cat is healthy and protected. A strict schedule ofinternal deworming is necessary, especially when there are babies in the home. Similarly, apply an external antiparasitic to your cat every month to prevent fleas, which can transmit diseases to humans. On the other hand, it is necessary to keep thelitter box clean, especially when there are small children who may put anything in their mouths.
Finally, if you are expecting a baby, it is essential to prepare your cat in advance. Experts recommend changing the food bowl or litter tray, or closing off rooms that the cat will no longer be allowed to enter several weeks beforehand. When the baby arrives, introduce them gradually, letting the cat sniff their clothes and familiarise itself with their smell before having direct contact. Finally, if your cat gets scared, do not force it and wait for it to relax.