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8 Great Tips for Introducing a Cat and Dog
Introducing a cat and dog tends to be easier if you are bringing a cat into a household that already has dogs rather than the other way around. Regardless of who was there first, here are some pointers to ease the introductions…
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- Choose a breed of dog that is cat friendly. Avoid dogs like Greyhounds and terriers. Greyhounds have strong chase instincts and terriers have strong prey drives.
- Control the introduction environment. Keep them within smelling and viewing distance but unable to get to each other. For example, put each animal in their own crates or on opposite sides of a baby gate.
Smelling is very important to both cats and dogs. It helps them get accustomed to new odors in the house. Let each animal observe each other's movements and behavior.
- Allow the cat set the pace. Since cats are smaller and more vulnerable than dogs, they are better off proceeding at their own comfort level. Do not force any interaction.
- Trim your cat's claws. Do this before any introductions are made.
- Be weary if your dog won't take his eyes off the cat. Your dog's deep focus on the cat is a sign that he has predatory instincts.
- Introduce them when they are both mellow. Wait until after they've eaten and are relaxed. Do not introduce your new dog after he's charged up from playing outside.
- Provide your cat with an escape route. Since most cats are smaller and more vulnerable than dogs, make sure your cat can get away from your dog.
- Never punish your dog for his aggressive behavior toward the cat. You don't want your dog to associate punishment with the cat. Then your dog will do everything he can to chase her away.
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