My two cats and I shared a house with a growing family for 3 years. During that time, the only cat-related behavior even remotely remarkable had to do with protection - of the baby! One day, as the 3 month old baby and my big tabby were lounging on a blanket on the floor, an adult swooped in to pick up the baby, and my cat didn't like it AT ALL! He let everyone know that HIS baby was not to be messed with! No damage was done, but everyone was reminded that the protection instinct is very very strong!

As far as I have ever heard, the worst problem is one you've already described: listening to well-meaning family and friends telling old-wives tales. Scrambling your brain with distressing messages is NOT a good way to help you through a healthy happy pre-baby time!

Best wishes to ALL your family!
- Pam, Murf the super-sitter cat, and Winston