Bringing a new baby home means big changes for your pets, who thrive on routine and familiarity. Without preparation, the arrival of a baby can cause confusion and stress for your furry friends. Preparing your pet in advance helps ensure a smooth transition, reduces stress, and keeps everyone safe and happy.
This guide provides clear, practical steps and advice to help you get your pet ready for your new arrival — while also taking care of yourself during this busy period.
1. Start Early: Make a Preparation Plan
The earlier you start, the better. Experts recommend beginning preparations as soon as you know you’re expecting. This gives your pet time to adjust gradually to the changes ahead.
Plan to:
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Update your pet’s vaccinations, flea, and worm treatments to keep everyone healthy.
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Gradually introduce new baby-related sights, sounds, and smells to your pet.
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Adjust your pet’s routine to reflect the changes that will come with the baby.
2. Introduce Baby Sounds and Smells
Babies bring new noises and scents that can be startling to pets. To help your pet get used to these:
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Play recordings of baby cries and coos at a low volume, gradually increasing it while rewarding calm behaviour (ASPCA).
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Introduce baby lotions, powders, and blankets to your pet’s environment so they associate these new smells with positive experiences.
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Bring home baby furniture and toys early so your pet can explore them before the baby arrives (PDSA).
3. Adjust Your Pet’s Routine Gradually
Your pet’s daily routine will change once the baby arrives, which can cause anxiety or behavioural issues. To ease this:
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Slowly shift feeding, walking, and playtimes to the new schedule you expect to have after the baby comes (Northeast Animal Hospital).
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Consider hiring a dog walker or asking friends and family for help to maintain your pet’s exercise and social needs.
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Practice leaving your pet alone for short periods to prepare them for times when you’ll be busy with the baby.
4. Set Boundaries and New Rules Before Baby Arrives
If there are areas of the house that will become off-limits to your pet (like the nursery), start enforcing these boundaries early. Use baby gates or closed doors to help your pet get used to restricted access (We Are Family Victoria).
If you don’t want your pet on furniture or in your bed after the baby arrives, begin training them to stay off now. This helps prevent confusion and resentment later.
5. Teach Important Obedience Skills
Basic commands like sit, stay, leave it, and come are invaluable when managing your pet around a baby. Teaching your dog to relax on cue or settle in a designated spot can help keep everyone safe and calm (Animal Humane Society).
For cats, encourage positive behaviours with treats and gentle redirection.
6. Introduce Your Pet to Baby Handling
Babies often grab, poke, and pull, which can be uncomfortable for pets. To prepare your pet:
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Gently simulate baby touches like poking ears or pulling fur, rewarding calm responses.
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Teach your dog or cat that gentle contact is positive and that they can move away if uncomfortable (ASPCA).
7. Plan the First Introduction Carefully
When you bring your baby home:
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Let your pet sniff baby clothes or blankets first to get familiar with the new scent.
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Introduce your pet to the baby in a calm, quiet environment with close supervision.
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Keep your dog on a leash and allow your pet to approach at their own pace.
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If your pet shows signs of stress or agitation, give them space and try again later (PDSA).
8. Create Safe Spaces for Your Pet and Yourself
Babies can be overwhelming with their noise and activity. Provide your pet with a quiet retreat where they can relax away from the hustle and bustle. For dogs, this might be a cozy den or crate; for cats, a high perch or separate room works well (We Are Family Victoria).
At the same time, new parents need rest and comfort. Using a supportive Sleepybelly Pregnancy Pillow during pregnancy and postpartum can help you get better sleep and ease muscle tension, so you’re better equipped to care for your baby and pet.
9. Never Leave Baby and Pet Unattended
Regardless of how gentle or well-behaved your pet is, never leave your baby alone with them. Always supervise interactions to ensure safety for both your child and your pet (PDSA).
10. Be Patient and Prioritise Self-Care
Remember, your pet is adjusting to a big change too. Use positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency to help them adapt. If behavioural issues arise, consider consulting a professional trainer or animal behaviourist.
During this busy time, it’s important to look after your own wellbeing too. Using soothing products like Magnesium Body Cream can help ease muscle tension and promote relaxation, giving you the calm energy you need to prepare your home and family. Maternity Compression Socks can also help reduce swelling and improve circulation, especially when you’re on your feet a lot caring for baby and pet.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your pet for a new baby takes time and effort, but it’s well worth it for a harmonious household. By gradually introducing new experiences, setting clear boundaries, and managing introductions carefully, you can help your pet feel secure and loved even as your family grows.
For more tips on family wellbeing and comfort, explore Sleepybelly’s blog articles designed to support your journey through pregnancy and parenthood.
