[lizbeth]

I am looking for tips on introducing my two ten-year-old cats to a new dog. The girls have never interacted with a dog. The dog, a male Golden Retriever, is around three years old and super friendly. But, he has never been around cats. Since this will be a first for everyone involved, I am looking for tips to ease into the introduction.

[Danielle DeGroot]

Hi Lizbeth. How exciting that you are welcoming a dog into the mix. Introducing dogs and cats can be very tricky. I’ve done it myself many times, as I have always had both cats and dogs. Dogs and cats can live together and get along very well, but it takes time to build that connection. It is very important that they all have time to get to know each other, so this is best done in small steps.

Before introducing them, allow the cats and dogs to learn each other’s scents by sharing a blanket, bedding, or other item that carries their scent.
When the time comes to make introductions, do so carefully. If possible, keep your pup on a leash, allow the cats to explore, and approach the dog as they get comfortable. It may help to introduce one cat at a time. It may start with just visual contact; how comfortable each animal is will help dictate how fast things will move. Let them have a little time together, then separate them back to their safe spaces. Repeat this process, increasing the time spent together as they get acclimated.

Be sure to reward both your cats and dogs with plenty of treats and verbal praise throughout the introductions. Slowly increase the time they spend together until both feel comfortable. Then, start letting them be out together while you are supervising. Learn more in this in-depth article, which covers introducing a cat to a dog. Best of luck, and I’d love to hear how it goes!!!

[Author]

Posts