Getting dogs and cats used to each other
Is your heart set on dogs and cats? With the right conditions, this shouldn't be a problem. Ideally, both pets have grown up together and have known each other since they were puppies or kittens. But reality often looks different. Still, you can make sure that your two pets get along well and maybe even become real friends.
Pre-check: Is your dog cat-friendly?
Before you bring a cat into your home, you should carefully consider whether your pet is suited for living with a cat. Some dogs just aren't the best roommates for cats. That's not a big deal, but you also shouldn't try to force something at all costs and put the cat or dog under a lot of stress.
If your dog, for example, shows a strong hunting instinct or has a high reactivity level, living together with a cat can be more challenging at least at first than with a naturally more relaxed pet.
Relaxed dog breeds are more suitable for living with cats.
3 steps to introduce dog and cat
Just like when introducing two cats, you can also follow certain steps when introducing a dog and cat to guide you through the process:
Step 1: Set up a cat room
A room just for the cat can be especially helpful in the beginning. This separate room is not a punishment, but a safe retreat. Make sure your dog does not enter the room, so your cat understands that she is truly undisturbed there. In this room, place the litter box, bed, toys, as well as food and water bowls.
If your pets get along well, you can later dissolve the room again. But especially at the start, a cat room is a great idea.
Step 2: Get used to smells & sounds
So that both your dog and cat can already smell their new roommate, you can give each pet an item belonging to the other. This could be a blanket or toy with the scent of the other animal.
To make things easier for your cat, you can also record your dog's barking and play it for her occasionally before she moves in.
Step 3: The first meeting
Once your cat has moved in and has spent a few days in her cat room, you can plan the first meeting. The rule here: safety first! To prevent accidents, your dog should be on a leash and, ideally, a second person should be present. Also make sure that the pets are well-fed, happy and tired out.
Choose a neutral location if possible. There should be no litter box, food bowl, or bed in the room.
Stay relaxed. Even if it's hard, try to create a calm atmosphere because nervousness transfers to the animals.
Use praise and treats to create a positive experience.
Let the pets observe each other in peace. Both cat and dog are allowed to retreat if they want to.
Growling or hissing from the cat can be normal at first. Make sure your dog doesn't see it as an attack.
Attacks on each other should be avoided. Make it clear to both pets right away that this is unwanted behavior. But don't scold if they're just stressed and overwhelmed. In this case, it's better to stop.
10 minutes is enough for the first meeting.
Praise after every meeting the pets thoroughly.
Ideally, dog and cat already know each other from a young age.
Practice, practice, practice—and lots of patience
Depending on how the first meeting went, you can gradually extend the time they spend together. Pay attention to their body language and don't rush anything. Hissing, growling, and barking are signs of stress, excitement, or being overwhelmed and shouldn't be ignored. In this case, it's better to take a step back. A relaxed coexistence requires a lot of patience and time depending on the dog or cat—but it's worth it!
Don't forget praise, cuddles, play, and snacks! This creates a positive association with the meetings. Make sure you give both pets equal attention.
Great rewards for hardworking dogs – our snacks
How do you introduce two dogs to each other?
If you want to introduce two dogs, the approach is a bit different. Depending on your own dog's personality, you can proceed in small steps or more quickly. It's also important whether the other dog is a family dog or a stranger and how he behaves. Pay close attention to body language. To learn more, feel free to take a look at our article about introducing two dogs.
