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Keeping your cat out of the bassinet can be challenging when you have a newborn baby in the house.
They love to explore every nook and cranny and snuggling in a bassinet is an attractive option for any curious cat.
I had explored a whole range of options to keep my cat out of my baby’s bassinet, so I thought I would share my experiences and the options I came up with.
Some of them might work for you straight away. Others may require some time of experimenting!
Why Do Cats Love the Bassinet?
Cats are naturally attracted to cozy, warm, and enclosed spaces, and the bassinet provides just that. The soft bedding and enclosed sides create a sense of security and comfort that appeals to their feline instincts.
The bassinet’s low height and accessibility don’t make it much of a challenge. After all, cats can jump up into almost anything! They are also ideal for cats to observe their surroundings while feeling safe and hidden.
Cats are also curious creatures, and the presence of a newborn in the bassinet can pique their interest. The scent and sounds of a baby can attract cats and make them curious about the new addition to their household.
Your cat may also associate the bassinet with you, as it is often placed near the bed or in the bedroom. This strong association with their beloved owner can lead cats to seek comfort and warmth in the bassinet when their favorite person is not around.
Why You Should Keep Your Cat Away From The Bassinet
When it comes to your baby’s safety, it is essential to keep your cat away from the bassinet. Although cats can be loving and gentle creatures, they may not fully understand the fragility of a newborn baby. Their curious nature and tendency to explore can pose a potential risk to your little one.
A playful swipe or jump into the bassinet can accidentally scratch your baby or even worse.
While some cat owners may argue that their feline companions are entirely harmless and would never intentionally harm a baby, it is still best to err on the side of caution. It is an animal, after all.
Even the most docile cat can become agitated by an unfamiliar scent or sound, leading to unexpected reactions. On top of that, cats are natural predators, as you know. Which is why mine always brings dead mice to the front door!.
So, it is better to prevent any potential accidents when possible. Better safe than sorry, I say.
Bassinets with covers
The simplest solution to keeping your indoor cat away from your baby’s bassinet is to get one with a cover.
These covers are designed to fit snugly over the bassinet, creating a barrier between your baby and your curious cat. The cover also acts as a shield, preventing dust, insects and curious pets from getting inside.
It also offers privacy, allowing your baby to nap undisturbed. A bassinet cover lets you rest easily, knowing your baby is safe and protected.
One of the key benefits of bassinets with covers is their versatility. Many covers are made from breathable materials, ensuring great airflow for your baby. This helps to regulate temperature and prevent overheating, providing a comfortable and cozy sleeping environment.
Some covers come with adjustable flaps or zippers, allowing you to easily access your baby for feeding or diaper changes without removing the entire cover. These convenient features make a bassinet cover a practical and essential accessory for your baby’s sleep space.
Cat Cover for Bassinet
Another solution to keep your cat away from the bassinet is to use a cat cover specifically designed for this purpose. Made from durable and breathable materials, these covers ensure your baby is safe.
Cat covers for bassinets come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your specific bassinet model. They are easy to install and remove, providing convenience and flexibility as you manage your baby’s sleeping arrangements.
Crib Nets
One of the ways to keep your cat away from the bassinet is by using crib nets. These nets are designed to cover the entire bassinet, creating a great barrier.
Crib nets are usually made of mesh material that is breathable for the baby and offers complete protection from any curious feline. They are easy to install and remove, making it convenient for parents to use them whenever needed.
When choosing a crib net, it is essential to consider the size and shape of your bassinet. Look for a net that fits securely and snugly around the bassinet without gaps or openings for your cat to sneak through. Additionally, ensure the mesh material is sturdy enough to withstand your cat’s claws and prevent tearing or damage.
Cat Deterrent Motion Sensors
Cat deterrent motion sensors are another great tool for ensuring your cat does not get into your baby’s bassinet. These ingenious devices use motion detection technology to detect when your cat gets near the bassinet. When this happens, the motion sensor emits a high-frequency sound or a burst of air to startle your cat and discourage them from getting too close.
The beauty of cat deterrent motion sensors lies in their simplicity. They require minimal setup and can be easily mounted near the bassinet or any area you want to keep your cat away from. Once installed, the motion sensors work reliably day and night, ensuring that your cat is kept away at all times.
Keep your cat active during the day
Another less tech-oriented solution I like to dry is simply keeping your cat busy during the day.
There are a few strategies you can try. First, keep them occupied with toys that stimulate their natural hunting instincts. Toys that mimic prey, such as feather wands or interactive treat dispensers, are great choices.
Another thing that works well is rotating toys. I try to use them all on and off, as cats tend to get easily bored.
Similarly, you can designate specific times each day to play with your cat. Having regular play sessions not only gets them exercising but also promotes mental stimulation.
It’s likely you won’t be able to keep them occupied the whole day, but at least you can use this when your baby is sleeping in the bassinet.
Keep the Bassinet Moving
Another option is to keep the bassinet moving. Cats tend to be attracted to still objects, so by providing constant motion, you can stop them from jumping in.
How do you keep your bassinet moving, you may ask. There are several ways you can achieve this.
You can opt for a bassinet that has a rocking or swinging feature, which is the simplest option. Of course, if you already have a bassinet without this, it is more of a challenge.
There are swinging devices you can buy on Amazon to attach to a bassinet to make them move too.
Keep Your Cat Outside
By keeping your cat outside the room where the bassinet is, you can eliminate potential risks and provide a secure environment for your little one.
So, the simplest solution may just be to keep them outside for the majority of the day. Of course, you need to have an outdoor cat to do this. But most cats are more than happy to occupy themselves outside during the day, so why not give that a try! It will save you lots of time, money and headaches.