Cat being aggressive with toddler - update

[adgal]

Hi all!  I wanted to update my original post on this issue, but I can't find it.  I did think it important to update though as I have no doubt I won't be the last mom to deal with this issue.  Just a recap...our cat was fine with our son when he was born...mild jealousy, but nothing that was a big issue.  As my son became more mobile (and obsessed with the cat..lol) our cat began to show aggression towards him - swiping at him (he isn't declawed), hissing at him and biting at him. It was so bad I thought I was going to have to give away my much loved kitty.  I got some fabulous advice on this forum, along with some great suggestions from our vet who's practice has a "cat behavior" component to it (it's a cat only vet clinic).  It's been several months now, and I wanted to let you know what we did, and how it's working.  

They get along great now. No, still not best friends, but it's not a bad situation at all now.  My son still loves that cat and is completely obsessed with him (his first word was actually cat if you can believe that), the cat does not necessarily return that affection..lol.  What we did was spend a lot of time with both of them, holding our sons hand stroking the cat and saying "gentle hands" over and over.  We also always gently reprimanded our son if he pulled a tail or chased the cat.  We installed a cat door into our basement door and put Regis' food, water and litter box down there.  It provides a great escape for the cat and our son can't get down there.  We make sure Regis gets a lot of attention and cuddling after my son goes to bed.  We make a real point of playing with him, etc.  We also have brought new meaning to word family bed...lol.  It's not uncommon to have all 4 of us in bed at night (good thing we have a king size..ha), so Regis does not feel left out (I don't recommend this until child is old enough to turn his head or alert parents to a problem.  The cat doesn't go anywhere near his face, or him for that matter ,but better safe then sorry).  This has taken so much time and effort, but has been well worth it as we have peace in our home and I don't have to give away my beloved pet.  I wanted to thank all of you again from the bottom of my heart.  Your suggestions were fantastic, and many have worked.  So thanks again!!

[adgal]

Thanks for the kind words ladies.  I was just about ready to give up though, and lots of what we did came from suggestions made here.  And Opus, the vet is probably only about an 8 hour drive for you..lol.  It's called Killarney Cat Hospital in Calgary.  They are excellent there!  

[opus88]

well all I can do is ditto everything Jade has already said.....this is just great to read a story like this for everyone to know with patience and kindness it IS possible to blend a new family together....thank you so much adgal for updating us about Regis and Ryder. You did a wonderful job girl -)....soon you can prepare to repeat all of the above....congrats!!!!!

btw...sure wish I had access to a Vet like yours...-)

[Jade59]

Aw, adgal, Bless your sensitive and loving heart.  I'm so pleased it all worked out with Regis and Ryder - a happy ending.  It does take time and effort to blend a toddler with a family pet and it's sad that some either don't take the time, or don't want to take the time and kitty is either given away or shoved outside and forgotten once a new baby comes along.  You did awesome!  Thanks so much for posting, too!

My prayers are with you and your pregnancy!  Big Hug!!!