5 STEPS TO INTRODUCING A CAT AND DOG

Have a dog but considering getting a cat instead?

This is enough to make any animal owner anxious.

What happens if they fight or bite? What happens if they bite each other?

Nobody wants to see a full-scale pet war.

This article will cover the five tips for introducing a cat and dog. You will have no problem making friends with potential enemies.

Where do you begin?

5 STEPS TO INTRODUCING A CAT AND DOG

1. Check Your Cats History with Dogs

It is not a good idea to introduce two pets at random.

They are carnivores and hunt small prey such as mice. They are prey to larger animals such as dogs.

When introduced to dogs, many cats who have not been socialized will automatically default to “flight” mode.

What is the question?

• Does your cat have any experience with dogs?

Cats who have been socialized are more likely than others to respond well to a canine

• Is your cat a female unneutered?

Neutered women are generally more passive and afraid

• Is this a cat’s first home?

Cats are more comfortable if they have a clear idea of their territory.

You should be cautious when introducing yourself if you have answered “no” to these questions.

Consider if the case is special (e.g., Traumatized animal or very old cat.

Also, check the breeds. Different breeds of cats and dogs will get along better.

Let’s get started on the preparations if you want to proceed.

2. SET UP A SANCTUARY

Set up separate sanctuaries for your dog and cat. It would help if you did not mix dogs and cats.

Other words: Have a clear boundary.

It’s sometimes easy. Many dogs and cats live indoors.

Both are sometimes indoors. Get creative and find ways to keep each other apart.

You want to introduce the scent of each pet to the other. Use a towel to transfer the scent to the other pet’s space.

This step should take a week. Here’s what I have to say:

Does your dog know basic commands? sit and stay?

You will need to teach you to obey commands if you don’t. You’ll need to have full control over your dog before the introductions.

Basic commands to teach your dog Must work for supervised meetings with cats.

Are we ready for a meeting? Not quite. There’s still a bit more work to be done…

3. MOVE YOUR BOWLS CLOSER

Give your pet a subtle intro.

Move your pets’ bowls closer to each other by using a wall.

It will make your cat feel uncomfortable, as cats are solitary eaters. It will build familiarity.

Try it and see what you think.

Congratulations! It’s time to get together.

Release the dogs! You’ll need to take it slow.

4. Introduce your dog with a leash.

Always start your intros with your dog leash.

It is obvious that:

Do you have complete control over your dog?

The majority of dogs are outgoing and friendly. Purebred dogs are more open and less afraid.

You want to be careful that the dog does not start nipping at your cat. You don’t need things to become too friendly.

What about your cat?

Make sure your cat can find a place to hide and has vertical elevation.

Cats use these items to feel safe. They will retreat into a hole when they get nervous. Do not force your cat into the water.

Allow them to go if they are uncomfortable.

Use the Look At That Training (LAT plan) to train your dog.

LAT Training your dog involves teaching him to look at both the cat and you. This will help your dog remain calm when he is around your cat.

If you want to try again, prepare yourself better.

5. Allow Supervised Socializing

You can extend the socializing time if everything goes smoothly with your introduction.

It is tempting to declare that everything has been a great success.

Not so fast.

Keep a watchful eye on the situation. Keep your pets separated when you’re not around.

If a dog or cat is aggressive, redirect and distract the pet toward its sanctuary.

You may not be successful in some situations. If this is the case, you must keep your pets apart and consider reuniting them.

Get professional help to help your cat and dog get along.

You’ll be forced to separate your pets and keep them apart at worst. Some people are not meant to be friends.

One more thing. Different dietary requirements are required for cats and dogs.

Cats are carnivores and benefit from a lower carbohydrate diet. This article will help you find the best cat food for your cat.

CONCLUSION

When introducing a cat and dog, slow and steady is the way to go. Take your time, and always perform introductions under supervision.

Remember our simple tips for success. Start by separating the space, adding scents and moving bowls closer to each other.

You can allow greetings if you have a controllable dog and a hiding place for your cat. Reward your dog and then move on.

Best of luck!