While some dogs can coexist peacefully with cats, others are unable to do so. Depending on the age, temperament, and activity level of the cats, a dog may occasionally coexist with some cats but not others. Even if your dog has previously coexisted peacefully with cats, it’s crucial to keep in mind that every dog and every cat is an individual, making every introduction unique.
When you first bring your new cat or kitten home
Give a kitten or cat some time to adjust to their new environment and develop a rapport with you before introducing them to your dog. Provide your kitten or cat with a cozy hiding place to retreat to if they ever feel threatened and introduce them to the house gradually. Your kitten or cat may need a few days or even a few weeks to feel secure in their new home and strongly attached to you. During this time keep your kitten/cat separated from your dog.
Secure your dog in their favorite room with their bed, water, food, and favorite toys when your kitten or cat is ready to begin exploring the house. Allow your cat to explore the house at their own pace so they can get used to the smell of your dog. When they’re prepared, let them go back to their own room, but keep your dog inside. Continue doing this for the next few days, giving each animal a turn to have access to the entire house without ever provoking them. As you wait to introduce your new kitten or cat to your dog, work on reinforcing the fundamental training that has already been given to your dog.
Your dog will have become aware of the presence of a new member to the family and should be acclimating to the idea by the time your kitten or cat feels at home in their new place!
Prepare your dog for the new arrival
Even if your dog has previously shared a home with other animals, they might still be wary of a new pet entering their domain. Although you may believe they will get along well, you can never be completely certain of a situation.
When you first bring your new kitten home, make it a point to show your dog that they won’t pose a threat to your affection by lavishing them with attention and praise. Additionally, keep in mind that puppies can be easily hurt or killed by dogs, so avoid leaving them alone together during those formative years.
Prepare a room for your new kitten
It can be challenging to get to know a new kitten, even without the additional difficulty of having other pets. Making a safe space for your new arrival, preferably their own room if that’s possible, is one of the best ways to help them feel at home. Leave the kitten alone to explore after placing a bed, a litter box, food, and water in the area. Until your kitten has had a chance to get to know you, you may want to keep it completely apart from your dog.
FAQ
How do you get an older dog to accept a kitten?
Never force interactions; instead, just show your kitten/cat lots of love and provide them with enjoyable activities like playing, grooming, and giving treats while they are in the same room as your dog. Just give the kitten or cat time to get used to the dog being there, and the opposite is true.
Do kittens get along with older dogs?
A word about puppies and kittens: Until a puppy or kitten is fully grown, she must be kept apart from an especially energetic dog, and even then, she must never be left alone with the dog. A well-socialized cat can typically keep a puppy in its place, but some cats lack the self-assurance to do this.
How long does a kitten take to get used to a dog?
While some pairings are successful within a few days, it occasionally fails. According to Liz Palika, the “get acquainted” process typically takes two to three weeks. Dr. According to Landsberg, it’s not always obvious from watching how a dog and cat interact whether or not they get along.
How do you introduce a kitten to a dog for the first time?
Similar to how cats and dogs should be kept apart for the first few days, keep your kitten in its “safe zone” while your dog gets used to the smell of your cat under the door. When your dog is prepared, let them see your cat through a baby gate or other obstruction.