Tips from Tamar
Introducing your new dog to your cat
All of our summer graduates left prison last week and are now in a new home, developing new relationships and learning new routines. Often, our dogs go to adoptive homes with resident pets, so we require every person--and dog--in the home to meet with our dog on neutral territory, but what about resident cats?
Cats do not generally like leaving their homes or meeting new pets, and it’s actually in their best interest not to meet new animals face to face quickly. Cats respond differently than dogs, so we’ve created a few simple suggestions that can help make the integration easier.
Step 1: Expectations
Cats are dissimilar to dogs in their social habits and relationships; most cats do not readily accept new animals or environments. While your dog will likely want to approach your cat quickly, the cat would prefer to first observe at a distance and slowly get used to the idea of having a dog. If your cat is not dog savvy and has not lived with dogs, they will likely be weary and distant. If the cat spends a lot of time hiding or retreating to a high perch, set aside individual time with your cat each day.
Step 2: Home Prep
Before your dog comes home, be sure that you have established safe zones for your cat. Cats move much more vertically than people or dogs, so high escape routes are a good idea and will impact your living space the least. Your cat’s eating area should be easily accessible for the cat, but blocked off from your dog. Often, an area on a shelf or counter often works well. Litter boxes should also be in a safe space. You may want to use a baby gate to section off a room or space for your cat’s privacy. Keep in mind cats often won’t eliminate where they eat so keep the box away from food bowls.
Step 3: Introduction (having a friend or partner is especially helpful in this step)
You finally have your new dog and you are ready to bring them into your home! First, try to ensure your dog is a little tired so that the indoor activity is a bit subdued. Then, armed with high-value dog or cat treats, bring your dog into a baby-gated room or blocked off area. If your dog is particularly rambunctious, it may be helpful to restrain him by leasing them to their side of the gate for this first encounter.
If your cat is fairly outgoing, you can try coaxing her toward the gate to investigate. You want to reward both the cat and dog for remaining calm once they can see each other. Keep this first intro short and sweet! Over the course of several days you can repeat this pattern, if both animals are amenable. Walk your dog out of the room on a leash if the cat is going to have free reign of the house. This will help prevent chasing.
If your cat is timid or simply not willing to come toward the dog, you can leave the gate up and give your dog a yummy chew and hope that over the course of a couple of days the cat gets brave enough to explore. Do not force your cat into the dog’s presence- this will not help foster positive relations.
Step 4: Acclimation
Once your dog and cat both seem calm and comfortable, you can start allowing them to engage without a gate or barrier. A well-exercised dog and a leash will be very helpful at this point. After a long walk or solid play session, you can try having your dog hangout with you on leash. Always praise and reward good behavior in the presence of the other pet! Once they seem tolerant or comfortable, you can remove the leash. Never leave your pets unsupervised together until you are very sure they are getting along!
Pro tips:
1. Make sure each animal has his or her own time and zone for meals. Fighting over food or bullying can be common and is easily preventable with separate meal times and places.
2. Nighttime interactions should be limited. If your cat is used to sleeping in your bed you should continue that routine and have your dog sleep elsewhere. When animals get spooked in their sleep they can over react and cause accidental damage.
3. Slower is better. If it takes a few months for your animals to coexist that's a much better prospect than rushing it and potentially having an injury.
4. If your cat has claws they should be able to protect themselves if push comes to shove, but it’s your job to ensure they don’t have to. A declawed cat is at a disadvantage so be extra diligent in creating safe zones for any pet at higher risk of injury.