Cats And Children - Gifting Your Child A Cat

Cats and children seem to be made for each other. A kitten will provide companionship to your child and also create a playful and friendly atmosphere at home. But keeping a pet is serious business and one must weigh all pros and cons before taking a final decision.

It is true that cats are gentle and affectionate creatures. However, they can be an added stress in a house with children. At the end of the day, you will be responsible for the cat's grooming, cleaning, training and feeding. So be ready to accept all these responsibilities. If there are any doubts in your mind, desist from getting a cat now. You can always get a cat after the child grows up some more so that he/she can share some of your responsibilities towards the cat.

Once you have finalized your decision to get a cat for your child, go for a big neutered male. They are less likely to pick up fights in the alley because of their laidback nature. Most often, you will find them lazing around the house, making their presence felt by soft, occasional purrs.

Cats and children gel well if the latter let the cats be their own selves. The natural instinct of a cat is to run around and climb trees. They also enjoy being caressed. Hence, teach the child to bond with the cat by taking advantage of its nature. It is unlikely for a cat to bite a child. So they are safe to play with.

Preparing Your Home For The Cat

Remember the precautions you had taken when you had brought your little one home? Bringing a cat home requires an equal amount effort. You must cat-proof your entire house. Make sure to lessen the house of all those things that are likely to cause threat to the cat. This includes taping accessible electricity sockets and covering water tanks. Prepare a small area in a corner where the cat can litter and be fed. Ensure that the children do not go close to the litter place. It is important that you take the duty of cleaning the litter as it poses hazard to the children's health.

A cat needs ample sleep. Responsibilities should include ensuring that the cat gets its full sleep and rest. Explain to your children that they should not spend too much time playing with the cat. This is mutually beneficial for both - the cats and children. Also decide whether to let the cat sleep with the kids on their beds or not. It isn't a good idea though, from the health point of view. Animal parasites like fleas and ringworms pose a great threat to human health. Alternatively, the children may transfer some of their allergies to the cat.

Cats make amazingly well behaved pets, especially in houses with growing kids. Cats and children enjoy a good camaraderie. Dogs are often referred to as a man's best friend. But the truth is that cats form an equally good association with humans, especially with your little ones. Cats are also more hygienic to keep than dogs. However, if you have a cat and are planning to start a family, it is important for you as a parent to be well aware of what it involves to keep cats at home with kids.