CAT LOVES BABIES INSTEAD OF MILK

# Establish the cat's new routine gradually and well in advance of the new arrival. That way he has time to adapt. Let him sniff the crib, pram, baby-bath etc. but teach him not to get inside them. Let him investigate the intended nursery room before making it out-of-bounds. If Puss knows what's in there, it is less of a tantalising mystery and he's more likely to ignore it. You may need to fit a scratch-guard to protect the shut door from an over-curious cat.

If you're concerned that Puss will try to sleep with the baby (they are nice and warm to snuggle up to), get crib and pram nets so he can't bed down with baby. These must be taut when fitted or the cat may use them as a hammock. Some American readers have mentioned difficulty in getting these, but they can be fashioned from large sections of fine mesh lace curtain (net curtain) or mosquito netting.

As the time of the arrival approaches, gradually reduce the amount of time spent petting your cat. Towards the end of pregnancy, Puss may not have much room to sit on the expectant mother's lap due to the "bump". Some cats are fascinated by the "bump," perhaps able to detect the movement within it. After the baby arrives you will have less time for petting and it will be less of an upheaval if you have already weaned Puss off having you at his beck and call. Establish a special 'cat-time' (e.g. in the evening after a baby's bed-time) to spend quality time together or, if possible, get your partner or an older child to become more active in caring for the cat and giving it attention while you care for junior. Some older children enjoy taking on the responsibility of becoming "mother" to Puss.