How To Get A Dog Used To A Cat

How to Introduce a Dog to a Cat

Some dogs get along perfectly with cats, while others are unable to coexist in a safe environment with felines. Certain cats (depending on their age, temperament, and activity level) can sometimes coexist peacefully with dogs, but not all of them. Even if your dog has previously lived happily with cats, it is vital to remember that each dog and each cat is an individual, and as a result, each introduction will be different.

Body language of dogs and cats

Consider the body language of both animals when you are introducing your dog to a cat for the first time. If the cat’s ears are pinned back or his tail is swishing back and forth, he is likely to be unhappy. You should pay close attention to the body language of your dog, since this might indicate a possible danger. If your dog has a strong prey drive (the desire to seek out, hunt, and perhaps capture creatures perceived as prey — mainly smaller animals such as cats or rabbits), she may become very concentrated on the cat throughout the training session.

If you notice any of these indicators, do not allow her to get close the cat.

Even if she is paying attention to the cat, you do not want her to get focused on him.

If your dog is OK with your cat within the house, it does not necessarily follow that she will behave in the same manner outside.

As a result, pay attention to her body language while she is around the cat in each new circumstance until you figure out how she will respond to him.

Methods for introducing a dog and a cat

Consider both the body language and facial expressions of your dog and cat while introducing them. A cat’s ears pushed back or tail swishing back and forth is a solid indication that he is unhappy. You should pay close attention to the body language of your dog, since this may indicate possible danger. It is possible that your dog will get obsessed with the cat if she has a strong prey drive (the desire to seek out, hunt, and perhaps catch creatures perceived as prey – mainly smaller animals such as cats or rabbits).

Keep her away from the cat if you notice these indicators.

However, you don’t want her to get focused on the cat, which is perfectly acceptable.

If your dog is fine with your cat within the house, that does not imply that she will behave in the same manner outside.

When they are outside together, she may become fixated on the cat and begin stalking him. To prevent this from happening, pay attention to her body language when she is around the cat in each new circumstance until you figure out how she will react to him. Dogs’ body language is seen below.

Option 1: Slow and steady desensitization

Alternatively, if your dog has become overly obsessed on the cat, you can attempt desensitization, which has the purpose of decreasing your dog’s sensitivity to the cat by progressively increasing her exposure to him. Set up a room (such as a bedroom, bathroom or spare room) with a tall baby gate over the entrance to keep the cat out of trouble. The room you pick should be one that the dog will not be able to reach and will not be required to access. For example, if your dog sleeps in your bedroom with you at night, don’t put the cat in the same room as him.

Provide the cat with all of the necessary items in his room, including a litter box, toys, food, and water.
As a result, be certain that your cat cannot go past the gate you have installed.
To begin desensitization, allow the dog to see the cat through the gate for a small period of time, and then redirect the dog’s attention to something else, such as playing with a toy or practicing commands.
Praise and reward the dog for being able to divert his or her attention elsewhere.
Even seeing the cat for the first time might be too thrilling for the dog at times.
For example, In his chamber, just next to the door, the cat eats his supper, while the dog eats her meal on the opposite side of the door.
It’s also possible to change out the blankets and bedding of each animal, giving them to the other.
Hopefully, by gradually exposing the dog to the cat and allowing the dog to grow used to the cat’s presence, the dog will finally become desensitized to the cat and lose interest in the feline companion.
Individuality distinguishes each dog (and each cat), and each will progress at his or her own rate.
If you don’t feel comfortable leaving your dog alone with your cat, you should separate the two of them.

Many dogs are capable of injuring or killing a cat in a short period of time, and your dog may also be wounded by the cat. Your top priority should be ensuring that everyone’s well-being is protected.

Option 2: Face-to-face introduction

This is a more brisk introduction to the subject matter. One person should be in charge of keeping the dog on a loose leash and observing the dog’s body language. Somebody else should be keeping an eye on the cat’s body language. If the cat is not hissing or rising his back in the vicinity of the dog, he can be permitted to walk around without restriction. When it comes to dogs, a cat is rarely a threat, although some cats may go on the attack when they encounter them. If the dog is calm in the presence of the cat, you can ask the dog to sit or lie down and remain, if she has been given such cues, while the cat goes around freely, smelling the dog if he so desires, while you supervise.

Option 1 and Option 3 should be tried if the dog is very focused on the cat (e.g., gazing at the cat, rigid body language, refusing to respond when you call her name), or if she lunges and attempts to chase the cat.

Option 3: Look at That

Alternatively, if the short introduction did not work and your dog is still not becoming acclimated to the cat, you may need to attempt some more formal training methods. By engaging in Look at That (LAT) with your dog, you can assist her in learning not to become preoccupied with the cat. In order to receive a reward, you’ll need to train her to gaze at the cat and then back at you. Essentially, she will learn that it is more rewarding to ignore the cat than it is to pay attention to it. Take a look at that training schedule.

That is her breaking point.
One dog’s threshold may be five feet away from the cat, while another dog’s threshold may be 25 feet away from the cat.
The cat may also show signs of distress if she begins to move more slowly, stares, and stiffens her body as a result of your proximity to her.
Once you’ve determined the dog’s comfort level, arm yourself with a clicker and some extremely tasty pea-sized goodies.
Put 10 goodies in your palm and keep the bag near by in case you want to consume them later.
You may have to place the reward directly in front of her nose the first few times, but after a few repetitions, she should begin to look eagerly at you as soon as she hears the marking.
Spend the 10 treats by clicking every time she stares at the cat until she has used them all up.
If she does that, either click or use the verbal signal when she looks at you, and then give her a reward, she will learn to behave better.
Mark her for staring at the cat a further ten times and then try it one more.
If the dog becomes transfixed on the cat as you go closer, you’ve over the line and need to back away from the cat.
Continue to work on LAT with your dog until she is comfortable being right near to the cat without being bothered.

The amount of practice you put in and the sorts of goodies you use will determine how quickly your dog’s threshold falls. It will also rely on your dog (since every dog learns at a different speed) and your cat’s comfort level.

Introducing kittens and puppies

It is important to remember that kittens may not be afraid of dogs, therefore you must keep a close eye on the dog while meeting the two of them. Because kittens are little and have a great desire to run and play, dogs with a high prey drive may become extremely stimulated by the movement of a kitten. Even if your dog gets along with your adult cats, it’s crucial to keep a watchful eye on her while she’s around a young kitten. Your dog, especially if she is young and energetic, has the potential to injure or kill the kitten just by attempting to play with it.

Adult cats and puppies can occasionally get along well together because a highly-socialized adult cat may be comfortable with a puppy acting like a puppy in particular situations.
For the time being, you will need to supervise their interactions until the puppy is old enough to exert greater self-control and has received some training.
Baby gates may be used to keep the animals secure and comfortable while yet allowing them to interact.
If she starts chasing the cat, you will be able to simply redirect her away from the undesirable behavior.

Seeking help from a professional

It is common for animals who have had a positive previous experience to adjust easily and quickly to a new pet in the family. However, if the introductions do not go smoothly, you should seek assistance from a professional dog trainer or behavior expert. Never resort to corporal punishment since it will not assist and may even make the situation worse. Find a professional dog trainer.

Introducing Dogs to Cats

Whether you currently have a dog and are thinking about obtaining a cat, or the other way around, it is critical to determine how you will introduce them to one another. Giving an untrained cat and an untrained dog the opportunity to meet in an open room for the first time is a recipe for disaster for both of them, according to the experts. instead of rushing things, plan ahead and take your time.

Matching Cats and Dogs

The characteristics of both animals should be taken into consideration when considering whether to get either one as a companion to your dog or as a companion to your cat. While it may be beneficial to seek for a companion who has previously been exposed to the other species in the past, it is better to avoid obtaining a cat altogether if a dog attempts to aggressively chase or pin, pick up, or otherwise “manhandle” any cat — or at the very least to continue with care. Additionally, a dog who growls, lunges at, or barks incessantly at a cat would generally fare better in an environment where cats are not present. As an example, a cat that growls at dogs or runs away from them would probably prefer not to live with them
If a dog enjoys running after things, then a timid, shy cat who runs away would probably not be the greatest choice, as it might provoke the dog to chase after something else. Similar to this, an enthusiastic cat that sprints around and pounces would fall into this group as well. A calm, confident cat who does not flee (whether in fright or play) might be a better choice for this situation. If a dog is playing rough, it is better to keep him away from kittens or old cats, who can be easily injured. As a substitute, stick with lively grownups who enjoy themselves while still being capable of taking care of themselves. An aged dog or cat who is laid back, quiet, or worried would benefit from having a calm counterpart
If a dog or cat who is energetic but not rowdy would benefit from having a calm counterpart. It’s best to avoid hyperactive partners that might cause annoyance, terror, or other problems for the other pet.

The Introduction Process

A very significant aspect of the procedure is the initial introduction between your current pet and your new pet, regardless of whether you are adopting a new cat or a new dog. Listed below are four actions that can assist you in ensuring a successful meeting:

Step 1: Choose the proper location for the first meeting

To introduce your resident cat to a new dog, you should not take your cat to meet the dog to a shelter or other place that keeps a large number of animals for health and safety concerns. Instead, the introduction should take place in the individual’s residence. If you are adopting a cat, do not bring your dog into the shelter with you and introduce him to the cats, since this may be extremely stressful or traumatic for all of the cats there. It is also not always a reliable prediction of how the dog will behave when it is returned home. Instead, inquire with the shelter’s adoption counselors about whether they have any dog-savvy, confident cats that they would be willing to let meet your dog in a controlled environment before adopting them. If this is not possible, another option would be to introduce your dog to a cat who is familiar with dogs and belongs to a friend or family. As a last option, you can bring your new kitten home and introduce him or her to your family and friends.

Step 2: Separate the animals

Over a few days, alternate which animal has freedom and which is confined in order to give each animal ample opportunity to study the scent of the other. Sometimes it is necessary to confine the dog to a crate or another room (or to another place if he is unable to be left alone) in order to give the cat time to roam freely and examine the dog’s scent. It is probable that the interaction will not work if your dog digs persistently at the separation barrier or barks at the cat for more than a few days without sufficient training. It is possible that you will require the assistance of a professional
In the event that no one is home, the dog or cat must always be properly confined to ensure that uncontrolled encounters do not occur. Upon achieving complete calm (or at least not obsession with the cat) and complete calm in the cat (which includes eating and using the litter box as usual), you may go to the next phase.

Step 3: Make leashed introductions

It is okay for both animals to be in the same room at the same time, but the dog must be leashed at all times. Repeat this method of introduction until the dog is calm and ignores the cat, and the cat is calm and eating and using the litter box as usual. If either animal exhibits any signs of fear or hostility, continue to step 2 for a longer period of time. Continue endlessly until both the dog and the cat appear to be comfortable and calm in the presence of one another
The dog and cat should be securely kept to separate places while no one is home to prevent uncontrolled encounters between the two animals.

Step 4: Allow unsupervised interactions

It is okay for both animals to be in the same room at the same time, however the dog must be leashed at all times
Carry on with this method of introduction until the dog is calm and ignores the cat, and the cat is calm, eating and using the litter box as usual
Stay at step 2 for a longer period of time if either animal exhibits signs of fear or hostility. Indefinitely repeat this process until both the dog and the cat appear comfortable with one another. The dog and cat should be safely kept to different places while no one is home to prevent uncontrolled interactions between them.

Training Tip:

If the dog is staring at the cat or the door that separates the cat from the dog, attempt to divert him and encourage him to look away using goodies, a joyful voice, or by gently walking the dog away on a leash to persuade him to look away.

Once the dog has been redirected away from the cat, consider rewarding him with a goodie. Repetition of this technique until he is no longer fixated on the cat or door will be necessary.

Warning Signs

The dog is likely to be in a hazardous match if he remains extremely concentrated, does not shift his gaze away from the cat or the door, completely ignores you, or lunges immediately as soon as the cat moves. If you are searching for a dog to replace your resident cat, you should choose another breed. You should generally avoid getting a cat for your dog if this is the case
If the dog lunges toward, growls at, snaps at, or otherwise displays aggressiveness against a calm, quiet, motionless cat, this will most likely not be a successful match. Same holds true in the case of a cat attacking a calm and quiet dog. If you are serious about making the relationship work, you will almost certainly want the assistance of a professional at this stage. You should try again with another, calmer cat if you are looking for a cat for your dog and your dog exhibits suspicious behavior while near a cat that is snarling, hissing, and swatting at it. He should not be allowed to live with cats if he continues to exhibit problematic behavior with many cats. If it is your cat that is growling, hissing, or spitting at you, give the cat a break and try again another day. It’s possible that you’ll need to try a different dog. The chances are good that a cat that hisses and growls at all sorts of dogs will not want to live with dogs in the future. Even if your cat tolerates the presence of a dog, she is unlikely to be pleased — which is an unfair condition for her. If the cat stops eating and drinking, using the litter box, or socializing with family members, she is not happy. If this is the case, you might want to consider finding a better fit or seeking assistance from a professional animal behaviorist.

Tips on how to make a cat and dog become friends

Is it true that dogs and cats are natural enemies? They are, in fact. Dogs and cats are two extremely different animals, and they both perceive each other as possible prey in their own territories. However, this does not rule out the possibility of them getting along. In reality, many homes have demonstrated that dogs and cats may become the best of pals over time. Some pointers on how to get a dog and a cat to become acquainted are provided below.

1)Obedience training

When there is a conflict between cats and dogs, it is almost always the dogs that are to blame. This is due to the fact that dogs have a stronger predatory instinct. In order to protect themselves, they will automatically go for tiny and fluffy creatures such as rabbits and cats. Dogs get fearful of cats as a result of this. One method of controlling this undesirable behavior is through obedience training. It is essential that your dog learns that chasing cats is an inappropriate form of behavior.

Furthermore, obedience training helps you to enhance your communication with your dog and to build a trusting relationship between the two of you as a result of your training.

2)Allow interaction only under your supervision

You should only allow interaction under your supervision, especially in the first few weeks after your cat and dog have just recently met each other. This is done to ensure the safety of both your cat and dog. When left alone, your cat and dog may get hostile against one another and even cause injury to one another.

3)‘Safe spot’ for cat

Prepare’safe areas’ where your cat can flee to and hide from your dog if it feels threatened by your dog. Always keep in mind that your dog should not be allowed access to any of these “secure locations.” Normal safe areas are often found on higher surfaces, such as the top of the refrigerator, book shelf, or seat on top of the window sill. Besides providing your pet with a “secure space,” you should also set aside separate dining and resting areas for each of your pets. Because both dogs and cats are territorial creatures, you should allow them to have their own areas to roam about in.

4)Swap scents

While humans rely mostly on vision to analyze their environment, animals such as cats and dogs rely on both their sense of smell and their sense of sight. Before your cat and dog to get along, they must first learn to recognize and accept each other’s odours, which is a vital step in the process. There are various techniques to getting them to become used to each other’s odours as rapidly as possible. Simply rubbing a towel on your cat and placing it next to your dog will suffice, or you may replace their bedding entirely if you like.

5)Desensitization

In contrast to humans, animals such as cats and dogs utilize their sense of smell in addition to their eyesight to determine where they are and what they are doing in their environment. Understanding and accepting each other’s odours is a vital phase that your cat and dog must go through before they can become friendly with one another. The fragrances of each other’s bodies can be familiarized rapidly with the help of a few simple tricks: Simply rubbing a towel on your cat and placing it next to your dog will suffice, or you may replace their bedding altogether.

Hopefully, utilizing these tactics, your cat and dog will be able to become acclimated to each other’s fragrance in no time.

6)Let your cat go

If your cat has a tendency to flee during the meeting with your dog, don’t worry about it. This indicates that your cat is not yet ready to engage with a new canine in your household. Give your cat a little extra breathing room. You should avoid attempting to force an interaction between your cat and dog since this may result in a negative outcome.

7)Keep the situation positive

In all situations, you should refrain from reprimanding your dog. Consider the following scenario: If you punish your dog every time it interacts with the cat, your dog may conclude that the cat is to blame for the reason why it is being chastised. The tension between your cat and dog will be heightened as a result of this. If your dog is being kind to the cat, give him a treat and praise him for it. This will encourage your dog to continue to behave in a more favorable manner with the cat in the future.

8)Go slow

If you’re lucky, your cat and dog will become pals within a few of hours of meeting each other. However, this is not typically the case. It takes time for cats to become acclimated to dogs, and it takes time for dogs to learn how to act around cats as well. Keep your patience, and your cat and dog will ultimately become friends. It’s only a matter of time before it happens.

Before you get your pet

A couple of hours is all it takes for your cat and dog to become best buddies. This is not typically the case. There is a learning curve for cats in terms of adjusting to dogs, and the same is true for dogs in terms of learning how to behave around cats. Your cat and dog will ultimately learn to get along if you’re patient. I think it’s only a matter of time until anything happens.

a)Age

Puppy and kitten: A puppy and a kitten who grow up together are more likely to form a deep bond as they mature. If you have a kitten and wish to adopt a dog as a new companion, you may want to consider getting a puppy rather than an adult dog, and vice versa if you have an adult dog. When it comes to a puppy and an adult cat, a well-socialized adult cat is unlikely to have any problems. An lively and playful puppy, on the other hand, may irritate the adult cat. A kitten and an adult dog are shown here.

As a result, they get along well with other adult dogs.
During the encounter, adult dogs may accidentally cause injury to the kitten.
In order to allow them to engage, make certain that all of their interactions are under your control at all times.
The only thing you have to do now is properly introduce them to one another.

b)Who came first?

When introducing new fluffy family members to your pets, be certain that your cat or dog is prepared to meet a new family member who is not of the same species as it is.

No matter which pet was adopted first, the most essential thing is that they be familiar with one another as a group.

c)Compatibility

If there is a problem with compatibility, it is usually because one of the animals is either too lively or too timid. As a result, the most significant consideration when selecting a new pet cat or dog is matching the personalities of the new pet with the old pet. If you already have an energetic and lively dog, you might want to think about obtaining a cat with similar characteristics as well.

Find Your Pet A Loving Forever Home

While some cats and dogs get along straight away, it normally takes a few weeks to a few months for a cat to become accustomed to a dog in the first place. Of course, the characteristics of both creatures will have a significant influence on how long it will take to complete the task. Remember, you’re not necessarily searching for pets who will become best friends with you. If your cat is content to ignore your dog despite the fact that they are both in the same room, this may be regarded a success.

Tips For Springing A Dog On Your Cat

In the event that your cat hasn’t had a dog around in a long time, or at all, there are a few things to consider before bringing a dog into the house:

Ascertain that your cat has a secure enclosure. Install a small pet door in a room that your cat can fit through but your dog cannot
This is one technique to achieve this goal. You must ensure that your dog does not have access to your cat’s litter box. Other than eating from the litter box, certain dogs may also scare the cat when he’s using the box, causing him to become scared to use it in the first place. As a final precaution, do not let your dog access to the cat’s food bowl. Cats, on the other hand, are not very fond of sharing. Place the bowl on a high platform and provide easy access to the cat through the use of a cat tree or strategically positioned furniture.

Proper Introductions

When you bring a dog into the house, you can’t just go away and leave him with the cat. Slower introductions are preferred over faster ones.

Check to see that both dogs are ready to be introduced before proceeding. The requirements for this are that your dog is well-trained in the “sit” and “stay” commands, as well as that your cat is thoroughly litter box trained and not anxious in his new habitat. Additionally, you should set up a separate area for your cat where your dog is not permitted to access, as described above. Make sure you feed your dog and cat on the opposite sides of the door. They will learn to link the smell of each other with something exciting – namely, the act of eating! As soon as your dog starts pawing or barking at the door, issue a stern “No!” order and move the food and water containers further away from the door. It is possible to gradually bring the bowls closer to the door each day until both creatures are eating happily at the same time. From there, you may expose them to each other’s odors even more powerfully by rubbing them together with a towel and then placing the towel next to the feeding dish of the other creature
Create a training regimen for your cat by requiring him to spend small periods of time in his box on a daily basis. You may entice him in by leaving a trail of treats. Put your cat in his kennel and your dog on a leash before going on to the next stage
This is a critical step to fulfill before moving on. Bring your dog into the room where the cat cage is located, and have him practice commands with you for around 5 minutes while you watch television. If he ignores your directions because he is preoccupied with the kitten, tell him “No!” and lead him out of the room, where he may practice some commands before attempting to enter the room again a few minutes later. Increase the amount of time you spend in the same room together gradually. As a next step, put your dog on a leash and instruct him to do a down-stay in one corner of the room while you open the cat’s crate. If your cat refuses to come out of the box, leave the room with your dog until the cat comes out of the crate and then attempt to re-enter the room with your dog. It’s critical to keep your dog in a down-stay so that he doesn’t become a threat to your kitten. Gradually increase the amount of time you and your partner spend in the same room
Allowing your cat and a leashed dog to be calm in the same room is a good time to remove your dog’s leash

In order for the introduction to go smoothly, both pets must be in good health. The requirements for this are that your dog is well-trained in the “sit” and “stay” commands, as well as that your cat is thoroughly litter box trained and does not become anxious in his new habitat. Aside from that, you should create an isolation chamber for your cat, into which your dog is not permitted to enter. Provide separate feeding stations for your dog and your cat on either side of the entrance. They will learn to link the smell of each other with something exciting – namely, the act of eating.

After a few days, you may gradually bring the bowls closer to the door, until both pets are eating quietly.
Using brief amounts of time in his box each day, you may educate your cat to be more compliant.
Put your cat in his kennel and your dog on a leash before going on to the next step; this is a vital step to accomplish before moving on.
If he ignores your directions because he is preoccupied with the kitten, tell him “No!” and lead him out of the room, where he may practice some commands before attempting to enter the room again a few moments later.
As a next step, put your dog on a leash and instruct him to do a down-stay in one corner of the room while you open the cat’s crate.
The down-stay must be maintained at all times in order for your dog not to scare your cat and cause him to flee.

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How to introduce a dog and cat

Despite popular belief, many dogs and cats are able to coexist happily with one another. It’s important to be patient and take the introduction process carefully, but it’s important to remember that whether or not your dogs get along will also rely on their respective personalities. Follow these actions to increase your chances of achieving success. Face-to-face encounters should be initiated. Once your pets are able to consume their food comfortably right next to the entrance, it is time to hold meet and greets in a common area of the home.

Keeping the first few sessions brief and quiet is important.
Don’t hold either pet in your arms because if either pet becomes hostile, you might end up hurting yourself or them.
Don’t forget to give your cat some snacks as well.
Toss a toy to the cat to entice him out of the room, or call the dog’s name and give him a treat if he pays attention to you.

How should I introduce my new dog or puppy to the family cat? – RSPCA Knowledgebase

When a new canine member is welcomed into the family, it is a joyous and exciting moment, but it can also be a bit daunting for everyone involved. This, however, may be addressed with advance planning, ensuring that everyone feels protected and that tension is kept to a minimum. It is critical that you carefully handle the introduction of your new dog or puppy to your household and that your new cat and dog are constantly under your supervision until you are confident that everyone is comfortable and safe.

Taking the time to locate a thorough book about the breed/crossbred you are purchasing well before bringing them home will ensure that you are well prepared for their arrival, according to RSPCA Australia.

Choosing the right dog

Some dogs will fit in better with a household that already has pets, while others will struggle to adjust. Young pups are tend to be more lively than older dogs; if you already have older pets, you may want to consider adopting a calm adult dog who is cat friendly. Make an RSPCA-affiliated shelter your first choice if you want to adopt a dog or puppy since they have been temperament assessed and the staff will be able to give you an idea of how the dog or puppy will react to other animals.

In order to pick a dog or puppy who will get along better with your cat, you should consider the following factors. Thousand of animals in need of a decent home are taken in by the RSPCA every year, thanks to the efforts of volunteers.

Preparing

Once you’ve settled on a dog or puppy, you’ll need to consider how to introduce them to your other pets in order to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible for everyone involved. As a result, all of the animals may be stressed at this time, and it is critical that you remain patient and prepared for the introduction to take place over the course of at least a week, if not many weeks. If you have more than one cat, you should follow the same procedure as described above. Prepare your household and current pets for your new dog or puppy’s arrival by spending some time with them before bringing them home with you.

Additionally, if your cat regularly has its food, water, litter tray, and other necessities in an area where the dog will now be, it is a good idea to plan ahead and relocate these items to a location that only the cat has access to, and to get the cat adjusted to the change before the dog or puppy comes.

When you first bring your new dog or puppy home

Once you’ve settled on a dog or puppy, you’ll need to consider how to introduce them to your other pets in order to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible for everyone. As a result, all of the animals may be stressed out at this time, and it is crucial that you remain patient and prepared for the introduction to take place over a period of at least one week, but maybe many weeks. If you have more than one cat, the same procedure should be followed. Prior to bringing your new dog or puppy home, you should spend some time preparing your home and your existing pets for their impending presence.

If your cat regularly has its food, water, litter box and other necessities in an area where the dog will now be, it is a good idea to plan ahead and relocate these items to a location that only the cat has access to and get the cat adjusted to the new arrangement before the dog or puppy comes.

Introducing your new dog or puppy to your cat

Ideally, your dog or puppy should be crate trained; there are several advantages to doing so, but it will be especially beneficial in this circumstance since it will make the introductions easier and more secure. If feasible, the crate (or your dog’s typical location if he or she does not have a crate) should be placed away from your cat’s normal eating, drinking, toileting, and sleeping places, as well as their access to their enclosure or the outside (e.g., through their cat flap). When you are ready to meet your dog and cat, choose a time when your dog is at his or her most relaxed.

Make use of a room in which your cat may easily escape to a safe location if they so want for the first introduction (for example, a room with some familiar and well used high elevated platforms such as a multi-tiered cat scratching post tower near the area so the cat can escape from the situation and gain vertical height as cats often like to be above the scene looking down and can feel safer that way).

In case your dog or puppy is in a kennel, you may distract him or her with a toy before bringing your cat into the room.
Allow the cat to become used to the dog’s presence, and the same goes for the dog.
In the event that you are unable to make use of a crate for the introductions, begin with this step.
In order for each animal to be complimented and rewarded at the same time, it is important to have another person present during this process if at all feasible.
Carry out this procedure numerous times a day, keeping the encounters brief so that tension is reduced to an absolute minimum.
However, if there is no forced engagement, they are unlikely to advance and, if this does occur, you will have the opportunity to defend your dog or puppy from any aggressive advances.
Be patient; it will most likely take a few weeks of walking your dog or puppy on a leash while the cat is there before everyone feels comfortable enough to try walking the dog or puppy off-leash for the first time.
There may be some hissing and tail swishing during the first few days, but this should subside after a few days or so.
Ensure that your cat has an easy escape path when you are ready to let go of the leash – once again, select a space with elevated platforms such as a multi-tiered scratching post tower, high window sills, or bookcases.

In order to ensure that your cat receives a high level of personalized attention from you during the period of time during which you are introducing the dog/puppy Wait until you are completely satisfied that your animals tolerate one other, that the dog/puppy has been educated not to chase the cat, and that they are all secure before you leave them alone with each other.

However, even when you feel comfortable leaving the two unsupervised together, the cat should ALWAYS have a safe haven where they may escape (somewhere that the dog cannot get, such as elevated platforms).

Obviously, this is a source of great anxiety, and it is critical that you take every precaution to ensure that the introductions are carried out as gently and slowly as possible, and that the cat always has safe and secure areas in the house where they can feel safe and secure away from the dog.

Hopefully, they will at the very least learn to tolerate one another and eventually learn to live peacefully together in the same house.

Pets are generally able to strike a balance and share their territory with their owners.

Additionally, making sure your cat has a private space to go to the bathroom as well as a safe sleeping spot may be beneficial. If your attempts at introduction are failing, or if either animal appears nervous or disturbed, it may be necessary to seek expert assistance from a skilled behaviorist.

How to Stop Your Dog from Chasing Your Cat

A dog can grow captivated on a cat to the point that she becomes nearly obsessed with her. He may begin by growling and barking, but he can quickly progress to lunging and chasing after other dogs. Your cat is under a lot of stress as a result of this. In order to successfully educate your dog not to chase cats, you will need to be patient and persevere through the procedure. Positive reinforcement and redirection training may frequently be used to prevent a dog from being violent towards cats.

Match Personalities

If you haven’t already, attempt to choose a cat or dog whose personalities are compatible with yours first. 1 Some dogs have a strong prey drive, and they will attempt to hunt and corner a cat at all times. If that’s your dog, it’s best if you don’t try to get a cat since you’ll both be happy. Cats, on the other hand, can have problems. If your cat constantly swats and hisses at dogs, it’s possible that your cat isn’t a “dog person,” to put it another way. When paired with a lively dog, an active, playful cat performs best, as long as neither perceives the other as prey or competition.

Don’t attempt to force two personalities together who aren’t meant to be together.

Teach Basic Commands

It is possible that you may need to re-teach your dog some fundamental instructions in order to reduce his predatory behavior. This comprises the phrases “remain,” “sit,” “come,” and “leave.” Test your dog’s obedience in a variety of distracting scenarios and with items that are appealing to him. Your ultimate objective is for him to follow these instructions whenever he is in the presence of your cat. When you initially test his behavior in the presence of the cat, make sure he is restrained by a leash.

Before they can learn to leave a cat alone, some dogs with high prey drives require expert involvement to help them.

Redirect the Behavior

If you can identify and redirect aggressive behavior as soon as it occurs, you will have the highest chance of success. 2 Once dogs learn that they enjoy pursuing cats, it might be difficult to break them of the habit. So try to catch it as soon as possible. If he attempts to lunge or chase your cat, tell him “no” and place him in a separate room for a few minutes. As soon as you see your dog’s attention is drawn to your cat, shift his focus to something else instantly. Tell him he may either come or go.

It’s also important to praise him for remaining calm around your cat from the beginning.

Make sure your cat has an escape route available at all times, just in case.

Some trainers recommend experimenting with a slightly different variation in which you give your dog little bites of a reward every time he comes into contact with your cat.

To ensure the safety of your cat, be sure to keep your dog on a leash. 3 This will assist your dog in developing a positive association with being in the presence of your cat, and he will be less interested in chasing her when she is released.

Keep Your Pets Entertained and Busy

When a dog has too much energy, he is more likely to pursue and attack a cat. 4 Every day, take your dog for a walk and mix in some fetch activities, training sessions, and even agility courses to keep him entertained. More you occupy his mind and body, the less probable it is that he would use any of his spare energy on your cat. Likewise, your cat should be treated similarly. The likelihood of a cat jumping on a dog increases when it has too much energy. This may cause the dog’s prey drive to activate.

Introduce Them All Over Again

In other circumstances, you may need to reintroduce your cat and dog to each other from the beginning. To do this, keep them in different rooms until they are no longer bothered by the scent or sound of the other person’s presence. Begin feeding them on opposite sides of a closed door until they are able to eat peacefully together. Then, in lieu of the closed door, install a closed gate or screen and feed them from each side of the closed gate or screen. Is your dog still obsessively focused on your cat?

Continue doing this until both pets are calm while eating in close proximity to one another.
The entire procedure might take several weeks or longer.
This does not imply that you have failed; rather, it indicates that you are prioritizing their safety.
Sometimes the personality of two pets just don’t fit well together.
1.
AmericanHumane.org, accessed on August 25, 2019.
“My dog is chasing after my cat.
Amy Shojai is the third author.
The Spruce Pets, Tuesday, July 10, 2019.
“How Do I Prevent a Dog from Attacking a Cat?” you might wonder.

How to Make a Cat and Dog Get Along: 13 Steps (with Pictures)

Are you considering buying a dog but are concerned that your cat may not accept it? Having a problem with a cat and a dog that simply won’t quit fighting?

While many cats and dogs do not get along straight first, there are methods for assisting them in their adjustment to living together. If you take your time and learn about the needs of both of your pets, it is possible to have a happy, quiet household with both a cat and a dog at the same time.

1 Take it slow. Do not just let your dog to chase your cat around the house. Keep the pets apart for the first few days, and then wait three or four days before finally exposing them to one another. Animals require time to become acquainted with each other’s scents and to become acquainted with new environments before they are capable of dealing with the introduction of another species.

If you try to push cats and dogs together at the same time, they are far more likely to fight or be unhappy as a result. Until they are both calm, keep them in different rooms and out of sight of one another. Begin by caressing the cat, then the dog, and vice versa (with the pets in separate rooms) to begin blending the animals’ scents.

2 Change the rooms where you keep the animals on a regular basis. This allows them to scent each other’s tracks without the other animal being aware of what they’re doing. Smells are an extremely significant method for animals to communicate with one another. Allow your animals to get to know each other’s scents before they meet face to face for the first time.

Applying a towel on your dog’s coat and then placing the towel beneath your cat’s water bowl may be effective. This will assist your cat in becoming accustomed to the dog’s smell and accepting it

3 Allow the cat and dog to sniff each other under the door that separates them. When they smell something new, they will be more likely to link it with a certain animal, even if they can’t actually see the animal in question.

Feeding the cat and the dog on opposite sides of the same door may be an option. They will be forced to acclimate to the smell of the other animal as a result of this.

4Delay introducing your cat and dog until the cat appears comfortable and ready to be introduced. It is necessary to give the cat extra time if he or she is afraid and flees and hides whenever the dog comes close to the door leading to their bedroom. When the cat has been acclimated to the dog’s scent and noises, it may be appropriate to allow them to interact with one another. 5 Hold your cat in your arms until it appears to be calm and comfortable. Then have a family member or friend carefully walk your dog into the room with a leash in his or her hands.

Do not allow the animals to come into physical touch with one another; instead, simply get them used to the other’s presence.

Make certain that you only hold the cat if it is willing to be held. Long sleeves are recommended to keep your arms safe from scratches. The use of a crate for the dog or cat while leaving the other animal unconfined is another possibility. The absence of physical touch between them will ensure that they do not make physical contact when they first meet.

6As you introduce your dogs to one another, provide them each equal amounts of affection. When ‘the new youngster’ gets more attention than they do, animals, like people, get envious of the situation. Demonstrate to both of your pets that you care about them and that the other animal is not something to be frightened. 7 Separate your pets for the second time. Don’t have them interact for an extended period of time; this will just fatigue them, which may result in conflict. Maintaining a quick and pleasant first encounter can help to ensure a positive experience.

Once the cat appears to be at ease, keep the dog on a leash while allowing the cat to roam freely about the room.

It is possible to employ pheromones, which you may obtain from your veterinarian, to assist both animals in remaining quiet and comfortable. Inquire with your veterinarian about whether he or she believes that the usage of synthetic hormones may be beneficial to your dogs throughout their transition time.

1Keep your pets apart when you are not at home or with them. You should continue doing this for a long period of time to prevent your cat and dog from injuring one other. 2 Negative actions directed against your cat by your dog should be redirected. Rough play and barking are examples of this. Instead of allowing your dog to become preoccupied with the cat, engage him in another activity or conduct some obedience training with him.

In this situation, avoid criticizing your dog as much as possible. Maintain a good attitude about the situation, and your dog will be more likely to form pleasant connections with the cat in the future.

3 Reward and praise your dog for being well-behaved in the presence of the cat. This might involve everything from being pleasant to simply ignoring the cat. Prepare your dog so that when the cat enters the room, he will love it and will treat the cat properly, rather than being hostile or too attentive to it.

As an example, “Oh, look, Puppy, there’s Kitty in the house! YES, YES, YES! “and they appear to be extremely delighted. After that, reward the dog with a little training goodie. You’ll find that your dog quickly learns to link good sensations with the cat.

4Make sure your cat has a safe haven where it can always escape out of the way of your dog’s grasp. This can include anything from a cat tree to a baby gate across a doorway, or anything else that permits your cat to escape. Cats will typically attack a dog only if they are cornered and have no means to get away from the dog. 5Assume a reasonable level of responsibility. If your dog or cat has never shared a home with another animal before, it will be unsure of how to deal with the situation at first.

Understanding that there may be a long period of acclimatization between the two will assist you in persevering with the process of getting them to get along with one another.

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Question Can you tell me about the dog breeds that don’t get along with cats? Dominik Feichtner is a Professional Dog Trainer and Behaviorist based in New York, New York. He is also the owner of The Dog Behaviorist NYC, which he founded in 2011. As a professional dog trainer with more than eight years of expertise in the field, Dominik specializes in general obedience training, behavior modification training, and puppy training. With his dedication to a balanced, common-sense approach, he was named one of the “Best Dog Trainers in Brooklyn” by Pooch and Harmony in 2020, as well as one of the “Best Dog Trainers in NYC” by the same publication the following year. Answer from a Dog Trainer/Behaviorist/Expert Avoid obtaining dogs with high prey drives, such as German Shepherds, pit bulls, and terriers, since they can be dangerous. It is possible that your cat may be in great danger if your dog has not been schooled on how to regulate their predatory drive
Question What is the best way to introduce my dog and cat? Dominik Feichtner is a Professional Dog Trainer and Behaviorist based in New York, New York. He is also the owner of The Dog Behaviorist NYC, which he founded in 2011. As a professional dog trainer with more than eight years of expertise in the field, Dominik specializes in general obedience training, behavior modification training, and puppy training. With his dedication to a balanced, common-sense approach, he was named one of the “Best Dog Trainers in Brooklyn” by Pooch and Harmony in 2020, as well as one of the “Best Dog Trainers in NYC” by the same publication the following year. Answer from a Dog Trainer/Behaviorist/Expert Keep your dog in a box when you initially bring it home so that it becomes accustomed to the presence of your cat
Question What can I do to keep my dog and cat from getting into fights? Dominik Feichtner is a Professional Dog Trainer and Behaviorist based in New York, New York. He is also the owner of The Dog Behaviorist NYC, which he founded in 2011. As a professional dog trainer with more than eight years of expertise in the field, Dominik specializes in general obedience training, behavior modification training, and puppy training. With his dedication to a balanced, common-sense approach, he was named one of the “Best Dog Trainers in Brooklyn” by Pooch and Harmony in 2020, as well as one of the “Best Dog Trainers in NYC” by the same publication the following year. A dog trainer is someone who trains dogs. Answer from a BehavioristExpert In order to provide your cat with a safe haven, ensure that you have adequate room for it. Question In addition to a cat, I also have a dog. How can we get them to get along now that my cat is hiding under the bed and I’m not sure how to persuade her to come out? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian Make use of the ideas and tips provided in this article as the foundation of your retraining. The cat has taken refuge beneath the bed because she believes it is a secure haven. Utilize a gentle, steady introduction to the dog, and keep them separated in between times, and she will eventually get more confident and come out
My cat sleeps on the dog’s bed with him, but the dog is still attacked by the cat if the dog approaches the cat. What should I do in this situation? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian In order to ensure that the dog respects him and does not start pursuing him, the cat will do this on several occasions. The cat is establishing some ground rules for who is in control of the household. The cat prefers to start touch with the dog, and may feel frightened if the dog initiates contact with the cat in the other direction.

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Make an effort not to favor anyone. Jealousy can sometimes be the catalyst for a fight. In order to avoid a negative reaction from the dog when the cat detects that it is receiving more attention, it is best to introduce the animals while they are younger. Young animals are more adaptable to the notion of coexisting with another kind of animal than older ones. Young pups, on the other hand, are not always aware of their own strength and have a strong desire to play, and as a result, they may accidentally injure a kitten. Keep in mind that you should introduce them gradually
Do not simply set the cat down in front of the dog as soon as you obtain it. Examine their relationship before placing them in an open place without supervision
Sometimes it is impossible to coax them into working well together. Simply keep them apart as much as possible and try to offer them equal amounts of attention if this is the case.

Until your pets have had a chance to mingle with one another, don’t leave them home alone with one another. When you’re not at home, you don’t want to take the chance of one or both of them getting wounded. Leaving your cat or dog alone in a room while you’re away is simple and far safer than leaving them alone.

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Don’t leave your dogs alone in the house until they’ve had a chance to connect with each other a bit. When you’re not at home, you don’t want to take the chance of one or both of them getting injured. Leaving your cat or dog alone in a room while you’re away is simple and far safer than leaving them alone.