Maine Coon Cats and Babies

"One big, happy family!"

Maine Coon cats and babies (or children) can become the best of friends!

With a smooth transition, your kitty can come to love your kids just as much as he loves you - and together, you’ll have one big, happy family!


six issues of the maine coon magazine.
six issues of the maine coon magazine.

baby playing with toys with cat nearby.Cats and Babies can be buddies

Many new parents worry about the interaction between their cats and babies.

Sometimes, advice from older generations suggests that pets could pose a danger to a newborn.

These concerns are common, especially when expecting your first baby: How will the cat react? Will he be a danger to the baby? What if he gets stepped on or his tail pulled?

toddler with a kitten on her lap on a couch.

These are valid concerns! But in general, this breed has an incredibly gentle, patient, and forgiving nature.

Our two Coonies were always calm, even when the kids were little.

They never needed their claws trimmed, and while they still get a little nervous around our youngest, they understand that no harm will come to them.

However, every animal is different, and some Maine Coons might need an adjustment period when a new baby arrives.

You know your cat best. Does he flinch at loud noises? Does he get anxious around kids? Pay attention to his behavior, as it will help you know what kind of transition to expect.

Most of the time, though, cats and babies can coexist peacefully!


Tips For Fostering a Loving Relationship:

Before Baby's Arrival:

Some parents choose to play audio recordings of babies crying for their pets to hear. This can help your kitty get used to the sound before the real thing.



Homecoming

In my experience as a new parent, bringing home a baby to a household with pets is usually no big deal.

Babies don’t move around much at first and spend most of their time napping.


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 A bit of crying when the baby is hungry or needs changing is the worst of it, and it won’t last long.

Your cat’s reaction to the baby will likely be mild curiosity. Let him investigate! You want him to see the new addition as part of the family, not something to be scared of.

small girl holds her catSo patient!

If your cat is shooed away or frightened by the baby, it can lead to anxiety. It’s important that he sees the baby as a new family member he can bond with, not a threat.

By keeping a calm, positive attitude, you’ll help your kitty adjust with minimal stress.

Also, remember to give your Coonie attention during this time, even if you're busier than ever. A few moments of snuggle time will reassure him that everything is okay.


Cats And Children: A Perfect Match

little boy holds big orange maine coon cat

As your baby grows into a toddler, things will start to change for your four-legged kid.

But the good news is, by this time, he has had plenty of time to adjust to the new family dynamic.

Here’s how to maintain a happy relationship between cats and kids:

  • Foster Respect: Teach your child how to interact with animals. Gentle touches and respect for boundaries are key. If you have to step in and guide your child, it’s worth it.
  • Supervision is Key: Always supervise interactions between your child and pets, especially when your child is younger and learning the ropes.
  • Know Your Cat: Some are more laid-back than others. Make sure to adjust your approach based on your kitty's personality.
  • Know Your Child: Children have varying temperaments too. Some are naturally gentle and compassionate with animals, while others might be a bit more boisterous.


Cats and Babies - "Should I Get My Cat Declawed?"

girl cuddling black maine coon cat

No, declawing your cat is not the solution. Declawing is increasingly frowned upon, and for good reason - it’s a painful procedure that removes a cat’s claws entirely.

Instead, keep your kitty’s claws trimmed and take precautions as needed.


The Maine Coon Breed With Children:

little girl reading in bed with maine coon kitten sprawled out next to her.

Maine Coons are often referred to as "gentle giants," and it’s easy to see why.

Their calm demeanor and patient attitude make them fantastic companions for families, especially those with children.

Oscar, a beloved Coonie featured in our Kitten Album, is the perfect example of this breed's natural patience.

young boy holding his maine coon kitten.

Oscar adores spending time with his kids, joining in their play and calmly watching over them.

His easygoing nature has made him a cherished member of his family.

Whether it's a toddler tugging at their tail or an excited child running around, these cats handle it all with remarkable grace.

Coonies rarely get flustered. Instead, they often enjoy being part of the action, offering a steady, comforting presence.

little boy snuggling and smiling resting his head on a fluffy maine coon cat.

This makes them especially wonderful for families with young kids, who may need extra time to learn how to interact with their feline friends.

The Maine Coon’s patient temperament is one of the breed's most remarkable traits.

It’s just one more reason why these gorgeous cats continue to win hearts across the globe - let's cherish it!


young child with a maine coon on their lapCuddle Time

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