Today was a milestone in the baby/kitty relationship. Our feisty feline, known affectionately as Missus Chickens, was enjoying some time with mama and baby on the bed. She likes to join us because I sing songs and have my head close to the comforter, which is enticing and requires a certain amount of head rubbing on my shoulder. I have become accustomed to the cat following the baby and I from room to room and observing us with the occasional interaction. Of course, when we first came home from the hospital, I worried that the cat would take an unnatural interest in the baby and end up sleeping on her or scratching her or a million other dangerous or inconvenient things that cats do when they are displaced in the family hierarchy. Mrs. C has not succumbed to any evil thoughts she may be having, which is a huge relief. In fact, the baby seems to bring out her nurturing side. Those who have met Mrs. C may balk at this revelation -- this cat is generally a giant brat to extended family. However, if I am upset or need a friend, inevitably Mrs. C senses it and comes for some love to comfort me. She seems to do the same when it comes to the baby. The baby inspires interest, some purring and the occasional rabbit-kick roustabout with baby's stuffed animals. But so far, NO bad behavior. Whew.
Today, as we were engaging in our singing, sounds and soothing routine, the cat was especially friendly. She was rubbing unusually close to the baby's newly grabby hands. Lo and behold, a surprise to them both when baby girl's grip found the scruff of Mrs. C's neck! Mrs. C did not even flinch. She was quickly released and ended up laying down next to us and enjoying more of our singing interactions. I was able to get a photo of some further touching. They even held hands for a while. What a lovely beginning to this friendship!
We then decided to play a little before naptime. Baby girl received this colorful jumper from maternal grandma and grandpa. She doesn't quite fit in it, but with some blankets stuffed around her middle and some books under the foot surface, she can make some early use of it during play time. It really got her interest today. Of course, we all look forward to the time when she can make use of natural materials for play...wooden blocks, pull toys, cloth dolls, etc. However, it is sure convenient to have some plastic at this age for the bright colors and easy clean up.
Today, as we were engaging in our singing, sounds and soothing routine, the cat was especially friendly. She was rubbing unusually close to the baby's newly grabby hands. Lo and behold, a surprise to them both when baby girl's grip found the scruff of Mrs. C's neck! Mrs. C did not even flinch. She was quickly released and ended up laying down next to us and enjoying more of our singing interactions. I was able to get a photo of some further touching. They even held hands for a while. What a lovely beginning to this friendship!
We then decided to play a little before naptime. Baby girl received this colorful jumper from maternal grandma and grandpa. She doesn't quite fit in it, but with some blankets stuffed around her middle and some books under the foot surface, she can make some early use of it during play time. It really got her interest today. Of course, we all look forward to the time when she can make use of natural materials for play...wooden blocks, pull toys, cloth dolls, etc. However, it is sure convenient to have some plastic at this age for the bright colors and easy clean up.
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