The Cat Choking Myth: Why it's not true and why you can leave your baby safe with your cat

If you own a cat and a baby, you've probably heard the alarming story that a cat can suffocate an infant by lying on top of it.

However, this story is false and a myth. Cats are no more dangerous to children than dogs, and if a cat should not sleep in a baby's crib, it is primarily for reasons of hygiene.

In this article, we would like to review this misconception, as well as the many misconceptions that still exist regarding the cohabitation between cats and children.

It is not recommended to let your cat snuggle in your child's crib

It is important to note that there is no risk of your cat smothering your child by lying on top of him. This idea is a myth and has no basis in fact. There have been no reported cases of cats choking infants by lying on them. However, it is still recommended that you do not leave your cat in your baby's crib, as this can cause hygiene problems. Cats can soil your baby's crib or bed, especially if they have access to the outdoors.

To ensure a harmonious cohabitation between your cat and your baby, it is essential to limit your cat's access to your child's bed. To do this, simply tell your cat "NO" firmly and put him elsewhere if necessary. However, it's important not to resort to violence, as this could hurt or traumatize your cat, and harm its relationship with your child. It's also important to note that the ban should only apply to your child's crib or bed, not directly to the baby itself.

Is a cat a danger to a child?

While it's true that cats can be sneaky, that doesn't mean they are a threat to children. Even though they have claws and belong to the feline family, such as tigers, lions, panthers and leopards, house cats are harmless. It's true that your child can get scratched by accident, but it's usually not serious and occurs mainly on the hands and forearms. Cat bites can also occur, and it's important to take them seriously because they can lead to infections.

However, it should be noted that cat bites are much less common than dog bites and are never fatal.

Can the presence of a cat trigger allergies?

Your child may be allergic to cats, as is 3% of the population. Cat allergy is actually a reaction to a protein found in the animal's saliva, called Fel d1, as well as other allergenic feline proteins. When an allergic person is exposed to these proteins, the immune system releases histamine, which causes symptoms such as sneezing, itching, conjunctivitis or rhinitis.

If you or your child suffers from allergies, you should know that there are hypoallergenic cats that belong to one of the following breeds:

• The Siberian,
• The Balinese,
• Bengal,
• The Devon Rex,
• The Javanese,
• The Russian Blue,
• The Sphynx.

As a general rule, if you suffer from cat allergies, there are good habits you can adopt to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. It's important to limit your cat's access to the bedrooms, especially your bed, to avoid hair and saliva. It is also recommended that you limit the use of carpets and rugs, and that your cat be brushed by a non-allergic person. If necessary, you can take an antihistamine to make it easier for you to live with your cat.

Is a cat suitable as a family pet?

Cats, although quiet and independent, can be a lovely everyday companion. They have their own personality and are often playful and fun. If you want your cat to get along well with your baby and get used to his or her presence, it's a good idea to introduce them together from the start. It is important to note that cats should not be adopted until they are 3 months old.

Cats are often playmates for children, and it's usually safe to let your cat cuddle your baby. In general, cats are very tolerant of children and will adapt to their presence. However, it's important to set boundaries and make sure your child respects your cat, just as your cat should respect your child.