Dear Miss Behavin’:
My friend and I found a rental that allows pets and we plan to move in next month. She has a cat and I have a dog. Can you give us any tips on introducing them and helping them adjust to the new situation?
Introductions between cats and dogs can be tricky if neither has spent time with the other species. Your first step is to set up a “feline only” area where the cat will feel safe. This space is quiet and out of the dog’s reach. Your roommate’s bedroom, an office, or a full size bathroom are all options. Set this area up with food and water, a litter box, a bed, and somewhere to hide.
Once you move in, keep the cat in the “feline only” area for the first few days. Some cats are sensitive to change so a week or more might be needed until the cat feels comfortable. If you notice that the kitty is exploring and adjusted, you can start with a couple brief introductions.
Cat-dog introductions are safest when the cat is free to flee and the dog is managed on leash. If you try holding the cat, you will likely get scratched or bitten. Find an area in the house where the cat has room to escape; tall cat trees are always great to have or you can clear off a desk or bookshelf.
After your dog has had exercise and is relaxed, keep him on leash initially and distract him with his favorite treats. Allow the cat to do what she pleases. Swatting and hissing are normal responses initially and dogs will typically pull and whine out of curiosity. If either animal has an extremely fearful response, end the introduction and try again later – you might have to repeat this short introduction a few times until they get acclimated. Reward your dog for any good behavior around the cat and try to end each meeting on a positive note.
If things go smoothly, continue to monitor their interactions and avoid leaving them unsupervised in the first few weeks. Worst case scenario your roommate’s cat will have to spend more time in the “feline only” area. Over time, she should start to feel less threatened by your dog and will recognize her escape routes.