Stressed out cat, she doesn't like DS

[mi_amor]

We had our cat for 5 years before we had DS. Since his arrival over a year ago, she seems on edge a lot. She also has bitten the fur off her legs and belly I think because of stress.

She doesn't have fleas, so I was pretty sure the fur biting was due to stress because she only started doing it after he was born.

Is there anything we can do for her? I feel bad because she doesn't seem to like children, and I'm worried now that DS is mobile. I try and keep a good eye on them, but sometimes she scratches him.

I've also tried to find another home for her, but no luck.

What would you do?

[MaWhit]

What would I do? I'd...

• get a vet check-up to rule out underlying physiological causes
• make sure she has her own space, where DS cannot get
• offer plenty of interactive playtime, every single day
• set aside time to give her loving, every day
• bring in several pieces of new cat furniture
• offer catnip every few days to see if it improves her mood (but don't leave it out, as constant exposure reduces its effects)
• bring in lots of new toys
• give her a special treat (canned food, raw meat) daily so she has something to look forward to
• give her a supplement like Pet Ease or similar

[mi_amor]

Thank you for all your suggestions, I will be sure to take her to the vet.
She is still very affectionate after DS goes to bed. She gets upset when he's noisy, but is her usual self once he's gone to bed.