Last Updated: 1 year ago
Do cats know babies are babies? Or does she just assume that all humans are the same?
Sometimes you may wonder if cats know the difference between adult humans and baby humans. Well, the overwhelming response is a resounding Yes, they do know the difference!
Some testing proves that when introducing the family cat to a new member of the family, the bond can become instantaneous.
It is similar to raising a puppy with a child, and they grow up together with a bond that is strong enough for a lifetime.
Do Cats Know Babies Are Babies?

Cats, equipped with heightened senses, can recognize babies through scent, sounds, and visual cues.
Their acute olfactory system detects unique baby odors, and they may respond positively, associating the scent with a member of their human family.
Cats may recognize the distinct cries and movements of babies, further solidifying their ability to distinguish them from adults.
How Do Cats Feel About Babies?
Cats’ feelings towards babies vary.
Some cats display curiosity, approaching gently to investigate, while others may exhibit caution or anxiety.
The individual cat’s personality, experiences, and the introduction process contribute to their reactions.
Positive associations, gradual introductions, and creating a calm environment enhance the likelihood of a cat feeling comfortable and accepting of a new baby.
How Do Cats React to Newborn Babies?

Cats typically react to newborns with a spectrum of behaviors.
They might show curiosity by staying nearby or observing from a distance. Some cats may display protective instincts, keeping a watchful eye over the baby.
It’s crucial to monitor their reactions, ensure a gradual introduction, and provide positive reinforcement.
Creating a secure space for the cat allows them to adjust to the new addition at their own pace.
Are Cats Safe For Babies?
With proper supervision and introductions, cats can coexist safely with babies.
However, precautions are essential. Maintain a watchful eye during interactions, ensuring the cat has an escape route if needed.
Keep the baby’s sleeping area off-limits to the cat, and provide safe spaces for both.
Regular veterinary check-ups for the cat and maintaining hygiene practices contribute to a harmonious and safe environment for both cats and babies.
How to Help Your Cat Bond with Your Baby

Myth versus reality: Your cat isn’t trying to steal your baby’s breath!
There are many myths that we’ve heard about cats and babies, and most are untrue, just old wives’ tales, because the cat was and is still considered evil in many cultures.
For instance, the myth about a cat stealing a baby’s breath because of the milk smell is untrue. Cats do like to seek warmth and comfort, so cuddling next to a baby is not unusual, but stealing their breath is.
A precaution that many experts advise cat owners to abide by is to not let their kitty sleep in the same room as their baby because of suffocation possibilities.
The reason for this is that a new baby cannot turn over and does not know to turn their face away from an object that may be inhibiting their breathing; thus, suffocation can occur.
How to Introduce Kitty to a Baby

As with any living creature, all cats are not created equal. They have different personalities, attitudes, skills, and more.
The best way to introduce your cat to the newest member of your family is to do so slowly and carefully.
Let your kitty sniff the new baby; he or she may want to cuddle right then and there, or they may walk away and want nothing to do with the baby.
They will know that the little bundle of joy you’re holding is a baby, or, in their eyes, a small human.
Chances are that their protective instinct will kick in, and they will watch you and others with the baby, making sure that no one is hurting ‘their little human.’
Safe sleeping arrangements for all. Your kitty will most likely want to sleep in the baby’s room, but as mentioned before, it is not advisable when they are that young.
But letting your kitty see the baby when you put him or her to bed at night will show your cat that all is well with their little human.
How you stop your cat from entering the baby’s nursery is up to you, but letting them sleep outside the door of the nursery will cause no harm.
At least they can feel like they are protecting what’s inside. Cats are known to be very territorial yet very adaptable.
Most cats will adapt well to the changes that are happening to their human family, and protecting their human family and their territory will be their first priority.
Wrap-Up
The fascinating bond between cats and babies reveals a delicate interplay of instincts and emotions.
While science affirms that cats can indeed recognize babies, individual reactions vary.
Nurturing positive associations, gradual introductions, and vigilant supervision form the cornerstone of a harmonious relationship.
The dynamic between cats and babies unfolds as a unique journey where patience, understanding, and careful integration pave the way for a loving and safe coexistence.
What do you think do cats know babies are babies? Do you have a new baby with a cat in the family and want to share your stories? Let us know in the comments below!
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This is such an interesting article, and not something I’ve ever thought about before. My 3 kitties have never encountered a baby before, so I have no idea how they’d react when they do. But positively I hope! x
Interesting article. I don’t have a cat or a baby to compare it to but I knew how my dog reacted to my sister when we brought her home and it was a slight adjustment as well.
What an Interesting article and I love to read more about this I miss having a cats
Interesting read. 🙂 The part about the cat stealing the baby’s breath made me laugh. Can’t believe people believe that. Cat’s are protective indeed. When my husband or I am sick, our cat always stays close to the person that’s sick.
I found this interesting I don’t have a cat but I did not realise they get so attached to babies.
I’m more of a dog person but some cats are truly beautiful and adorable. I didn’t know there were such silly myths and that cats could create such a strong bond with babies, I’ve seen it happening but only with puppies.
When I had my first baby, my standoffish 14 y/o cat, turned into the sweetest cat towards me. He still doesn’t come much by the baby (except for when he wants pets from me) but he’s never given me so many kisses or showed as much affection as he has since the baby was born. When I’m changing him at his changing table, he’ll rub up against me and stare at the door like he’s protecting us, and whenever the baby cries- he instantly is up, stressed, and looking for us to make sure we’re taking care of him. Seeing this from a cat that used to stalk all other little animals, makes me believe he truly knows this is my little human, and he definitely knows not to hurt him.
I find this article to be very accurate. I have a 3 year old cat that I had to bottle feed as he was orphaned at 4 weeks old. I think he came to think of me as his mother.
Well, when he had just turned 3, I had my first and only baby. He was a bit avoidant of her at first, but over time he began to get more comfortable around her and would sniff her, and within the past few months he will cuddle up next to me when I’m feeding her.
When she’s doing tummy time in her playpen / mat, he comes close by and watches her. He keeps an eye on her when she’s sleeping and I’m nearby (I don’t let him sleep in the same room as us, and if I close the door for her to get a more sound nap, I kick him out of the room by tempting him with cat treats). He is on high alert whenever she’s crying, and he will look at her and then look at me, as if to say, “Are you gonna do something about this?”
He’s been great and hasn’t gotten jealous, although I do think he misses his cuddling time with me. He hasn’t scratched her once, and he’s even let her pet him a few times. My baby is 2 weeks away from being 6 months old. I only hope he remains this patient when she becomes a toddler sooon.