Cocoa addresses the addition of young children:

“Dear Cocoa,

I was quite content in my home with my two pets that catered to my every whim; until about two years ago.  At that time they brought this loud smelly creature that appeared to be a miniature of themselves, but that did nothing but cry and sleep.  At first I was curious, then I knew it wasn’t anything I needed to worry about, so I left it alone.  But now, the creature is moving around on its own and…and…oh, it is so hard to talk about, but it won’t stop picking me up!  I have screamed and yowled and struggled and squirmed; and the pets sometimes come and set me free, but lately they haven’t been.  I don’t want to hurt it because it smells like a kitten (much like my own a few years ago), but it is getting way out of hand.  What can I do?

Signed Tired of Being Picked Up”

“Dear Tired of Being Picked Up,

You do have a problem, one that all of us face when we have accepted a home with pets who have human kittens.  Yes, I know they didn’t have the human kitten when you joined them, but, things change.  You have two choices at this point, well, actually three.  One, put up with it.  Two, yowl louder, sort of like the kitten was really hurting you.  Three, leave and find a new pet home.  Sorry, but when it comes to human kittens, like our own babies, you must learn to compromise until they are big enough to understand.  Of course, you could always hide every time the human kitten is about, but that might cut into your relaxing, eating, and sleeping time.  Good luck, and keep you whiskers alert.

Signed Cocoa”

When introducing a new baby into a home with cats (or cats into a home with children), be careful to allow for the fact that the cats do not like to be picked up by the little ones.  Although most will try not to hurt the baby or young child, accidents may happen.  Be sure to watch closely when cats and children interact and instruct the children on how to be careful with cats, or any animal.  Also allow the cat an area that is "kid free" where they can feel comfortable.  --  Cocoa's Editor.