Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

How to introduce an outdoor stray cat with claws to a 2-year-old?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | 6 lbs

Thanks for the great ans to 1st question, this box wouldn't let me ask all. The stray I am thinking of adopting, I would def get him thoroughly checked out, shots, neutered, etc. He's been an alley cat as long as I've lived here 8 mos, I'd asked how he'd transition to indoor only. My other question is my 2 yr old girl likely too young yet? I know a lot of people have both dogs and cats even around their infants, but with him having all his claws and having been an outdoor cat, don't know.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 6th, 2018

No, that should not be a problem provided he is wormed as well. Usually cats will run away from kids if the kids pester them. It is not likely that he will scratch her without a reason. Tell your girl to not pull on his tail as it will be ouchy, and he may make her an ouchy. Even at 2 years kids can learn. I grew up with cats that always had their claws, and I do not remember being mauled by them. However when I was an older child my cat would let me know in no uncertain terms when she did not like something, but again except for a little scratch here and there, no problem. If you keep his claws clipped (normal nail clippers and just clip the tip off, make sure you do not clip down to the pink quick) this should be no problem. Start with putting him on your lap , pet him spread out his toes , make it a massage the toes session first. Once he gets used to that, you can easily extrude the claws and clip the tips, Do one or two first, break, pet, do another, etc. Cats are pretty good with that, usually. It will be great for your daughter to grow up with a kitty.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

How to adopt a stray cat, transition to indoor, and manage scratching?

Most cats who lived outdoors can easily adapt to become an indoor cat, They may ask to get out in the beginning, but eventually they will settle to stay inside. Check if Midnight is neutered, and if not, then that would be the first thing you will need to have done or he will stink up your apartment. Also take him to a vet for an exam to make sure he is healthy. There is no need to declaw a cat, You can have the vet techs show you how to clip the toe nails. If you provide him with a scratching tree or scratch boxes he should not scratch up your furniture. There are also plastic nail covers that can be glued onto the nails which prevent the cat doing damage. I have 5 cats and none have ever scratched up my furniture and they are not declawed, Cats can be taught to use a scratch box, Put cat nip on it and your kitty will be in heaven.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

What are the health risks of adopting a stray kitten with kids?

I do not see anything abnormal based on these photos. If you are worried about something you should take her to a vet for an exam. Chances are she needs to see a vet soon anyway to get some vaccinations. I'm a bit unclear as to whether or not you were asking about a scratch that the cat gave you. If that is what you are worried about you will need see your own doctor for that question. There are diseases that people can get from cat scratches but I am unsure if they are prevalent in your country. I hope this helps. Lillith is adorable!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My kitten's claws are too sharp! How do I keep my baby safe?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Shadowcat. Have you tried a product known as Soft Paws? They are soft caps that can be glued onto the nails. If you are unable to apply them at home, your veterinarian will be able to do so for you. I think it would definitely be worth a try! Good luck.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Training & Behavior

Is a kitten safe with a baby? What cat breed is best for toddlers?

It should be fine getting a kitten with having a toddler in the house, but you will have to work with the baby on gentle touch with the kitten. I personally would recommend getting a ragdoll. They are laid back cats, and from my own experience, very good with kids. I have a young son, and when he was learning gentle touch with animals, the ragdoll never once swiped or hissed at him. They are also very loving cats. Living in London, I would not recommend allowing the cat outside. There would be too many chances the kitten could be hit by a car, taken by another family, or attacked by another cat. It's also recommended that ragdolls be inside only cats due to their gentle nature. If you do decide to let the kitten outdoors, I would make sure to be with it outside especially when it's young so that it doesn't wander off.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

What to do with a new unvaccinated kitten around kids before shots?

How lovely of you to take in Haliegh! Because she isn't vaccinated, keep her indoors at all times and keep her isolated from any other cats in your home. Be sure to practice good hygiene after petting her, and washing your hands thoroughly after cleaning her litter box. She may not be used to small children, so only let your children interact with her when you are observing them. Be sure to have them wash their hands as well right after petting them. Enjoy your new cat, I hope this helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My cat's vaccinations lapsed. Is she safe with an unvaccinated kitten?

This is great. I would freshen up your Angora cat's vaccination and when you adopt your new kitten, make sure it is examined, wormed and vaccinated by your veterinarian. All should be well then. Oh, and there will be a lot of hissing and spitting....do not despair. It will take time but eventually they will at least tolerate each other or even like each other. Make sure you give your older kitty just as much loving as up to now so she does not feel neglected.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Training & Behavior

Why is my cat suddenly scratching my child? How can I stop it?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I would probably avoid continued contact if she does not appear to respond to your commands. The reason is that cat scratches can be quite dangerous to a child not just because of the physical trauma but because of the possible infections that can be transmitted that are usually more marked in children. Good luck and have a good night!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share