Welcome to PT. I have to agree with everyone here -- NEVER hit a cat. They just don't understand and will learn to distrust you and will probably retaliate even more. Biting is normal cat behavior for some cats. My Mishi sometimes bites when he's playing - usually just gentle nips, no breaking the skin. When he starts to get too rough I just say NO! in a really stern voice. They seem to learn what NO! means pretty quickly. The spray bottle doesn't work with my two -- they just get curious about where the water is coming from.

As for the stuffed animals, my RB Goldie had many favorites during her 15 years on earth. Now I sleep with her favorite teddy bear in memory of my dear departed fur child. Treasure these moments with your new baby - they grow up so quickly.