(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Robert Downey Jr. has been "ordered" to keep his new baby's gender a secret.

The 46-year-old actor and his wife film producer Susan Downey are expecting their first child together. Robert, who wed Susan in 2005, has pledged to keep their baby's name and sex confidential.

"I am under strict orders to discuss neither [the name or gender]," Robert told E! Online at the American Cinematheque tribute in Beverly Hills Saturday.

Although Robert was reluctant to disclose this information on his unborn child, he was more than willing to share information on his new pets. The actor and his wife have just adopted some felines.

"But you got the cats' names," Robert said. "Their names are Montgomery and Dartanian."

Changing cat litter is helping Robert prepare for baby maintenance. He is not afraid to dig in on daddy diaper duty.

"That's just poop," he said. "That's no big deal."

Robert and Susan are elated about the upcoming arrival of their baby. Susan is thought to be due in early 2012 and the couple are counting down the days.

"Robert and Susan could not be more excited over this news," his representative explained in August. "They can't wait to welcome this new baby into their wonderful family."

Robert's newest film Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows will be released in the UK and US on December 16. (C) Cover Media