Introducing cats to baby

[BEO]

So I am expecting a baby due February 2024. I have 2 indoor cats that are 2.5 years old, who are my babies. They are both so lovely and friendly however one of them is really nervous with strangers . He will just run upstairs out of the way if anyone else apart from me and my partner come into my house. He has took his time to warm to my mam and in-laws and will also come to see them too.

Just really scared he won’t be ok with the baby. I’ve started to do the nursery now, and that room is off limits to them and always has been so that won’t be an issue. They are used to sleeping upstairs so nearer the time I will start to lock them downstairs on a night to get them used to it.

I use Felliway etc. just wondered if anyone had a nervous cat and then had a baby and how they get on??? Really really hope he settles- I mean he has no choice I could never part with him. The other cat is super friendly, curios and loves kids so will be fine! Just the more anxious one I am worried about.

I have a very nervous rescue cat and had a baby 15 months ago. I had the same concerns as you and honestly it went much better than I expected but will depend on the cat. He has always mostly ignored the baby to be honest, sometimes runs upstairs when he cries / makes too much noise, but otherwise is happy just to be around him. I think the baby coming in from birth helped, as he obviously was still and gave my cat time to get used to him before moving about! I have just always made sure the baby stays away from him as much as possible and teaching gentle hands, and making sure my cat has his own space to go to away from the baby

I have at times found my cat cuddled up to my baby's blanket/clothes so I don't think he is at all afraid. I read once that cats think of babies like kittens or part of their family, not sure if it's true but I hope so!

Congratulations on your baby x

Thank you @Missrainbows u really hope for the same outcome. Everyone is telling me not to worry but I can’t help it .

He is currently going through a spout of stress induced cystitis (we think) and trialing different treatments with the vets. It may mean hun being on Prozac but that may help him when baby comes too. Just want this issue sorting before then.

he has a safe place where he hides when he’s most scared (behind bed in spare room) although it’s very rare he hides there now, used to be any time anyone came in but now he chooses to sit on top of stairs and watch from a far.

I just don’t want him to get more stressed or depressed. Like you said it will be from baby being really small and I’ll be off work for a year so he may enjoy me being in all the time and hopefully investigate the baby when she’s not crying lol. Will still give him lots of attention and cuddles .Just can’t help but fret and worry 🙈🤞🏼