Since the very beginning, our cat George has been an integral part of our little family as it started growing. Six years later, our family has grown three fold - and he's been there for the arrival of all four of our babies. He even shares a birthday with our oldest!
About a month ago, we just brought home our little Lorelei from the hospital. Just like the other children, we've prepared George for her arrival so that he could get acclimated to all that she brings with her - new sights, smells and sounds.
For some pets, unfamiliar noises of infants crying, changes in a new routine with me being home over maternity leave and the sweet scent of a new baby can be daunting.
Here are a few tips that I'm sharing with you to help you and your little love prepare for a new member of the family.
Acclimate Your Pet Using First Outfits and Blankets
After the baby is born, have a family member take home one of your baby’s first outfits or blankets from the hospital so your pet can get used to the new smell by the time you arrive home.
Create a Retreat Space
When baby starts crying spells, your pet will want a place they can retreat from. Create a space where they can go away from the noise or when things get a little chaotic. Include your pet's favorite toys and snacks to provide familiarity if it is a new area of the home.
Reuniting the Family and Introducing Baby
Try and involve your pet with all the new routines that come with having a newborn. When you are feeding or changing the baby, offer your pet a treat so that there is an association of good vibes!
This is also a good time to teach and reinforce your pet's basic training and understanding of rules around your baby.
Introduce an All-Natural Calming Supplement
Include an all-natural calming supplement like Zylkene into your pet’s diet to help them cope with the changing situation without making them drowsy. Helping your pet adjust to changes in your home before your baby arrives can make the transition smoother, leaving more time for family bonding when the baby comes home.
Zylkene is a behavior supplement that helps cats and dogs to relax and cope with new situations like this as well as traveling, thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, new homes, grooming and meeting new people! It's non-drowsy, non-drug calming supplement that is available at your veterinarian's office and online. Visit the Zylkene website for details or ask your veterinary clinic for it by name.
Consult your veterinarian before giving your pet Zylkene. Follow the recommended administration on the package, unless otherwise instructed by your veterinarian.
If your pet’s behavior changes suddenly in any way, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. He or she can rule out any underlying medical issues as well as make additional recommendations.
Have Plenty of Pet Toys on Hand
Ensure your pet has plenty of toys as a distraction so as not to confuse it with baby's toys.
I hope these tips help you prepare your pet for the newest member of your tribe!
Zylkene is ideal for pets to help cope with various challenging situations, such as loud noises (fireworks, thunderstorms), traveling with pets, etc. Ask for Zylkene by name at your veterinary clinic, or purchase it online.
Click here to learn more about Zylkene non-drowsy calming supplements for your dog or cat.
This is a product-provided, sponsored conversation that contains affiliate links. I received Zylkene products for my own personal review. All opinions, text and experiences are my own.If your pet’s behavior changes suddenly in any way, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. He or she can rule out any underlying medical issues as well as make additional recommendations. Consult your veterinarian before giving your pet Zylkene. Follow the recommended administration on the package, unless otherwise instructed by your veterinarian.