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Introducing a dog and cat doesn't have to be a stressful task. You can have a harmonious multi-pet home with just a bit of care and attention. By following a few steps, you can learn how to introduce a cat to a dog with very little worry.



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    Secure the dog with a sturdy leash before bringing him or her into the room with the cat. This will help you to steady the dog and ensure that there are no sudden movements.
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    Speak in a calm tone when introducing a dog to a cat, and remember that animals can sense tension, so don't worry! Reward both pets with treats when they show restraint. Examples of this might include the cat not hissing/lunging (with open claws) at the dog, or the dog not barking/jumping on leash at the cat.
    • It may take a a few days for some animals to acclimate, others could take months. It truly depends on the temperament, social identity, and family status of each animal (family status, such as it's place in the family, if it has been the only one or not). Puppies tend to be more energetic and therefore could seem a nuisance to some cats. Always consider the personalities of the animals and try to supervise their interactions thoroughly in the first weeks.
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    Allow the animals to sniff and explore each other at their own pace. Separating them when they come around each other may lead them to think the other is dangerous, so just let them go around each other, but don't be afraid to get in the way if you need to.
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    Divide your attention equally between both the cat and dog, at the introduction and in the future. Avoid actions that might cause jealousy, like [Calming the Cat|comforting the cat] if the dog barks. Try not to scold or raise your voice if one or both animals act aggressively towards each other.
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    Allow your cat his or her own escape, especially for the first few weeks. Cats enjoy their alone time and their own space, especially in times of heightened insecurity. Acclimating cats to dogs is usually more difficult for the cat, since they were the first ones there. Place a special bed up high where the dog cannot reach, or allow the cat to stay in a room alone. Make sure the cat has access to his or her food, water and [Set up a Litter Box], and make sure the dog can't come into his/her "headquarters.
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    Separate the cat and dog when you are away until they become acclimated. A crate makes a cozy retreat for a new dog in a strange place. A baby gate might work instead of a crate if your dog is unable to jump over it. Your cat will feel safer with the dog restrained and this safety might pave the way for closer inspection and faster acclimation.
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    Pay close attention to how the animals react to one another. Look for signs that they are getting used to each other. Examples of this may include simple kindness in response to each other. The dog might show affection by wagging a tail or licking, whereas the cat might purr or rub up against the dog, or even stay around it willingly.
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  • Be diligent in teaching the dog obedience skills. Practice sitting, staying and heeling in a variety of situations. This will help the dog control his impulses and allow you time to intervene if necessary.
  • Don't try to rush the process. Acclimating dogs and cats, like any new situation, takes time. There may be setbacks, but try not to get discouraged. Cats and dogs can live happily together and may even become friends.
  • When adopting a new dog to bring into your home with your cat, test to see if he or she will be cat-friendly before making your decision to adopt, if possible. If you are adopting the dog from a shelter or pet store, you might place him in range of a cat just to gauge his or her reaction. If the dog is overly aggressive, it's probably best to keep looking. If you are adopting the dog from an individual, get as much information as you can about the dog's behaviors and temperament. Ask if the dog has ever been around cats or other small animals and how they behaved. When adopting a cat, do the same homework: find out if he or she has experience living with dogs.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
  • Cat and dog treats
  • Cat bed
  • Baby gate
  • Dog crate
  • Secluded area for kitty

Article Info

Categories: Cats | Dogs

In other languages:

Español: aclimatar un gato a un perro

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