Maternal instinct or just me?

[Boomerwang]

I didn't realise it until last night but in the evenings when I sit on the sofa I seem to catch myself gazing lovingly at the dog and the two cats when they join me. I've always been an animal lover but I actually nudge my bf to turn around and 'look at how cute they are!' and it's getting a bit excessive. I suddenly had a thought and wondered if it was my maternal cogs starting to work?

I don't find newborn babies 'beautiful' and I've always been terrified to touch one in case it breaks (!)

I'm 32 weeks pregnant and just got my first stretch mark. Instead of getting upset about it I just shrugged my shoulders.

Do you develop maternal instincts or do some people just have it and others don't? And am I just mooning over the pets because I'm a sad git?

Nope - not just you. I've started talking to my elderly cat like she's a toddler.

I don't know about maternal instincts, but after watching One Born Every Minute DH picks up our smallest cat and cuddles and holds him like a baby - every week! So I think he has what you've got! ;)

I have found myself smiling indulgently at moany kids in supermarkets instead of just shuddering with horror like I would have in the old days! (Am 30 weeks).

Not just you! Am 37w with dc1 and dh has started fetching me to look at the cats doing anything that he thinks is cute. Usually sleeping in a funny position. I laughed at him, then caught myself doing the same thing yesterday...

A friend says it's hormones designed to stop you eating your baby when it finally arrives! Quite like this idea!

awhut? Designed to stop you EATING your baby? Since when was that ever a problem?! lol!

I think that is the point - nature stops you! I should say that the friend who told me this has 3 dcs...

I find I get that far away new mummy to be look when I strock my bump.

xx