Cat-to-Dog Introductions
Tips for Introducing Cats and Dogs: What Works and What to Avoid
Find out how to help cats and dogs build trust with each other and create a peaceful, happy home.
Introducing a cat to a dog is an exciting step toward building a happy, multi-pet home!
With a thoughtful, gradual approach, many cats and dogs can learn to enjoy each other’s company and even become the best of friends.
Every pet is unique, and taking the time to help them adjust at their own pace can make all the difference.
Whether you’re bringing a new cat into a dog’s home, introducing a puppy to a resident cat, or helping two adult animals meet for the first time, these simple tips will help you create a smooth, positive introduction.
HELPFUL TIPS FOR INTRODUCING CATS AND DOGS
Have a “safety room” as well as high places the cat can access but the dog cannot. Baby-gates, cat doors and clearing high surfaces can accomplish this. It is important that the cat can retreat to regroup and relax away from the dog and then venture forward into “dog territory” at her own pace. The cat should have access to food, water and litter in this area so no interactions with the dog are forced.
Never force the cat and dog into proximity by holding them, caging them or otherwise restricting any desire to escape. This is stressful and does not help. Aside from it being inhumane, stress is a common reason for cats to break litter box training.
For the first introduction, have the dog on leash in case he explodes into chase. If it seems to be going well, take the leash off and supervise closely.
If the dog is behaving in a friendly and/or cautious way, try to not intervene in their interactions, except to praise and reward the dog for his good manners.
Interrupt any intense chasing and try to redirect the dog’s attention to another activity – this is very difficult so you may be forced in future to manage the dog on leash around the cat until you have worked out a routine or divided up the house.
In the first few weeks, observe the trend: are things getting better or worse? Monitor interactions until there is a pattern or plateau in their relationship.
Whether the cat or the dog is the newcomer, be sure to give your other pet plenty of extra attention so they do not associate this change with reduced attention and affection. If the newcomer is a cat, it’s also a good idea to make sure the dog associates the new intruder with good things for him. Shoot for positive associations—always.
Dogs should not have access to the cat litter box – it is too stressful for the cat and the dog may eat cat feces and litter. Most dogs will also eat cat food the cat leaves behind – we suggest feeding cats in the cat’s “safe” room or on a high surface.
Information adapted from original article by the San Francisco SPCA, 2004
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