New baby and cat

[Anonymous]

I have a cat who, up until a few days ago, was a total princess. She was my constant companion when I was home, followed me everywhere, slept near me, and enjoyed being held. I still pay as much attention to her as I can, but now that the baby is home, I obviously have my hands full more often. Yesterday, she vomited and for the past few days she has had diarrhea in and out of her box. She doesn't have quite the same appetite as usual either. She is a healthy 2-year-old cat. Does this sound like a normal adjustment reaction?

[Anonymous]

Our 4 year old cat didn't have any diarrhea or vomiting, but def. hid more, didn't want as much attention, and didn't eat as much for about 2 weeks after we brought DS home. Now, at 4 months, he absolutely loves the baby. Will rub himself up against him, loves being pet by the baby (we hold baby up to pet him) and will come over and sniff his head if he's crying to try to sooth him. He also watches over him sometimes which is pretty cute.

We have found that the cat can be more of an attention whore at our bedtime (lies on us, won't go away even when we try to push him away...lol mommy and daddy need time too!) and if DH or I is without the baby he is at our side constantly wanting attention lol.

[Anonymous]

If she has diarrhea and vomiting, you should take her to the vet. Behavior changes are expected--illness is not. She can't get worked up and give herself diarrhea.

Our cats had a rough adjustment as well, but they got through it and are very gentle with our tormenting toddler.

[Anonymous]

Your cat is not healthy! Take it to the vet--that is not normal!!!

[Anonymous]

You should take it to the vet ASAP--it's probably dehydrated by this point.

[Anonymous]

Op here. I did call the vet, and actually she agreed it was likely a stress reaction. People get GI problems in reaction to anxiety, why should animals be different? Anyway, she is back to normal and even showing some interest in the baby. Just want to share in case anyone has a similar concern!

[Anonymous]

You will need to pet the cat a lot when the baby is asleep. It's gonna suck because when the baby sleeps you are not going to feel like being touchy feelu during your brief downtime.