Dog and Cat Introductions

CAT TO DOG INTRODUCTIONS

When introducing your new pet to the resident pet(s) it is important that the dog knows basic obedience. Ideally, wait at least two days until you've begun to bond and formed an understanding with your foster. You will need to have the dog under control when interacting with the cat so they can learn which behaviors are appropriate and which are not. Make sure to keep a leash attached to the dog during introductions with the cat(s) just in case you need to grab them quickly.

Take your time and create a stress-free environment. Once the dog is comfortable in the room, let the dog explore the rest of the house for short periods each day while the resident pet is not there. Once both the dog and resident pets have acclimated to the new environment, set up a baby gate &/or other physical barrier so that the cat/dog can see one another without the possibility of interacting.  Since some dogs may be able to hop a gate, be sure to leash the dog during the interactions through the gate.

If both pets appear to be calm and not-stressed, keep the dog leashed & remove the barrier. Do not hold or force the cat to meet the dog.  Let the cat explore and interact on their own time.

Watch them carefully, but don't act nervous - the dog can sense it. A dog that is showing overt aggression, such as uninterruptible stares, fixating, snarling, growling, baring teeth, etc., will probably never accept a cat. In that case, the cat and dog should be kept separated for the entire foster period or you can contact the Program Manager to see if another foster home may be a good fit. 

If, however, all is reasonably calm, walk the dog around the room on the leash. A dog is naturally a predatory animal. It is a natural instinct for the dog to want to chase a cat. Assume the dog will chase the cat. Do not let the dog intimidate the cat by barking or chasing. Use the lead and collar and give a quick tug each time the dog acts inappropriately to let him know these behaviors are unacceptable. On the other hand, if the cat bops the dog on the nose, that is a good sign and should not be discouraged. When they set up boundaries between themselves, they are beginning to establish a working relationship. Let them interact while the dog is on the leash for about 20 minutes then return the cat to a safe haven. Increase the amount of time they are together a little more during each visit - always supervised. It is important to be patient and encouraging. If you are relaxed, the animals will be more at ease. Use your best judgment as to when it is safe to allow supervised interactions without the leash. NEVER LEAVE DOGS AND CATS TOGETHER UNSUPERVISED!

Always be sure that the cat has an safe space to enter/exit without concern that the dog can follow.  Even if interactions are going smoothly, it is ideal for a cat to have a "safe space" when it is needed.

Please know, that even the best laid out attempt at successful introductions does not guarantee a "happily ever after". Some animals simply do not want to live with another. It is important that you are able to recognize signs of discomfort, fear and stress in both the foster, as well as your resident pet. If at any point any the new pet is not a good fit for your family needs, please reach out to us sooner rather than later. MEHS can work to offer additional tips & tricks or even offer next steps to find a better match for your family needs!