Introducing your new puppy to the cat you already have in your home is likely to be a stressful experience for both animals. However, if you do it correctly, you will not jeopardize the safety of either of the two animals, who should remain reasonably calm while a positive relationship is established between them.
Steps
Step 1. Choose a room for your new puppy
All puppies need a room where they can get used to their new home in safety and comfort. Choose a small, safe room with an uncovered floor (in case the puppy gets dirty). Give your puppy everything he might need such as a cot, water and toys. Take care of the two pets separately for the first day or two.
Step 2. Take your little dog around the house
Shut the cat out and take your puppy for a walk on a leash around one or two new rooms in your home. The tour should be short and fun; let the puppy sniff and investigate until he gets too excited or frightened.
Step 3. Let your cat explore
Take your puppy to his room and let the cat smell the new smell in the house, emanating from the puppy.
Step 4. Use a dog basket
Introduce your pets to each other in a controlled environment, placing the puppy in its basket and letting your cat explore at will. Do this for a few minutes twice a day until the cat stops showing fear or aggression. Try to distract the puppy by paying attention and showing your affection. Reward him when he doesn't growl or bark while the cat is around.
Step 5. Get them to stay together on the leash
When some peaceful encounters have occurred between them, try again by bringing the puppy on a leash. First, it would be a good idea to get your puppy tired by getting him to do some activities and games. Choose a room with an easy escape route for your cat in case he gets scared. By always keeping the leash on, keep your puppy busy by giving him commands, rewards and / or affection. Let your cat come as he pleases. Start with short meetings and, if things go as hoped, gradually increase the time. If possible, ask a family member to stay away from the dog to give the cat affection and encourage him.
Step 6. Allow your pets to interact freely under control
Once the kitten and cat have started interacting constantly without showing aggression or fear to each other, you can remove the leash. Choose a room that allows the cat a quick escape route or out of reach of the puppy, and closely monitor the interactions of the two pets. Start with short encounters, and gradually increase the length by remembering to give each pet attention, affection, and rewards when it is quiet.
Step 7. Allow your pets to interact freely without control
Only when your pets have become completely accustomed to each other can you let them stay together. Let each animal have a means to find some privacy. This could be a cat flap, an overhead door, shelves or a small recess.
Advice
- The more you exercise your puppy before a meeting, the less likely it is that he will try to "play" with your cat.
- There is nothing wrong with going slowly.
- Always proceed with caution when deciding to let your pets get close to each other.
- If you can teach your puppy to respond to simple commands, you will have a better chance of having no problems when he meets the cat.
- You will have a better chance of success if you manage to distract the puppy's attention from the cat, even when it is excited.
- Hold the puppy in your arms in case the cat becomes violent.
Warnings
- Dog breeds with hunting instincts, herding dogs or dogs that are more agile than normal could present a real challenge.
- Never leave your pets alone together if you have even the slightest doubt in your mind that both are not ready.
- There is always a chance that your puppy may not get used to the cat no matter how much effort you put into introductions.
