As pet parents, we know our furry friends are family—but welcoming a new baby can shift our focus, sometimes leaving our pets feeling left out. A touching TikTok video by @introvertedcatlady, featuring a woman cuddling her orange tabby while reflecting on her cat’s jealousy after her baby’s arrival, has struck a chord with pet parents everywhere.
With nearly 1 million views, the video’s raw honesty about “mom guilt” for neglecting her cat has sparked a wave of empathy and support. Here’s the story, plus practical tips to help new parents balance love for their pets and newborns.
A Viral Moment of Love and Guilt
In the viral clip, Kristin (@introvertedcatlady) rocks gently in a chair, her orange cat nestled against her chest. Overlaid text reveals her realization: “After becoming a mom, I started to notice how jealous and sad he became.
I told myself I would make sure to give him the attention he needed and deserved again because he’s also my baby.” The caption cuts deeper: “The guilt I feel for not shifting my energy to him during the brinks of motherhood makes me ill.”
The video, which has earned over 225,800 likes, resonated with viewers who flooded the comments with support. One response, liked nearly 14,000 times, read, “People say ‘it’s just a cat’ but you’re the only mother he has too.” Another user praised Kristin’s compassion, saying, “Finally, someone was decency.
I see so many people getting rid of their pets when the baby comes. Bravo ma’am.” Kristin herself shared her heartbreak, telling a commenter, “I can’t think without crying about all those poor animals that are abandoned or forgotten.”
The Emotional Tug-of-War for Pet Parents
Kristin’s story highlights a common struggle for new parents who are also pet owners. A 2018 HuffPost survey found that 1 in 10 parents regretted getting a pet due to the added responsibility, with 12 percent saying family life would be easier without one, as pets can complicate holidays, day trips, or work travel.
Yet, a 2024 report from Best Ontario Casino Sites shows a shift: only 38 percent of Gen Zers prioritize starting a family over raising a pet, suggesting pets are increasingly seen as lifelong family members.
For many, the guilt of dividing attention between a newborn and a pet is real. Cats, with their sensitive natures, may show signs of jealousy or sadness—like withdrawing or acting out—when routines change. Recognizing these feelings and taking steps to include your cat can make all the difference.
Tips for Balancing Babies and Cats
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offers practical advice to help cats and newborns coexist harmoniously. Here’s how to ease the transition:
- Prepare Gradually: Use your pregnancy to acclimate your cat. Play baby noises, introduce baby scents (like lotions or powders), and set up nursery furniture early to familiarize your cat with changes.
- Shift Caregiving Duties: If someone else will take over feeding, grooming, or playtime, start this transition one to two months before the baby arrives to help your cat adjust.
- Reintroduce Calmly: When returning home with your baby, greet your cat calmly before introducing them to the newborn.
- Use Scent for Familiarity: Let your cat sniff baby-scented items, like a blanket, to build familiarity.
- Keep Sleep Spaces Safe: Use doors, screens, or crib tents to keep cribs cat-free. Never allow a cat to cuddle near a newborn’s face to avoid safety risks.
For more ways to keep your cat happy during big life changes, check out our guide to understanding your cat’s emotions.
Why This Story Resonates
Kristin’s video reminds us that pets feel the shifts in our lives just as deeply as we do. Her commitment to making time for her cat despite the demands of new motherhood is a powerful example of the love and responsibility pet parents carry. The outpouring of support in the comments shows how many of us relate to the guilt, love, and effort it takes to keep our pets feeling secure.
Takeaway for Pet Parents
If you’re a new parent feeling the tug of guilt over your pet, you’re not alone. Small, intentional steps—like setting aside daily cuddle time or preparing your cat for changes—can help your furry friend feel loved and included. Your cat’s been by your side through thick and thin; with a little planning, they can thrive alongside your growing family.
FAQ
How can I tell if my cat is jealous of my new baby?
Signs of jealousy include withdrawal, reduced appetite, or attention-seeking behaviors like meowing or knocking things over. Spend quality time with your cat to ease their stress.
Is it safe for my cat to be around my newborn?
Yes, with precautions. Keep cribs cat-free using screens or doors, and never allow your cat to cuddle near a newborn’s face to avoid safety risks.
How can I help my cat adjust to a new baby?
Gradually introduce baby-related changes during pregnancy, like noises and scents, and maintain your cat’s routine as much as possible. Reintroduce calmly after the baby arrives.
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