Cat-Cat and Cat-Dog Introductions

Provide a Quiet and Welcoming Area for the Newcomer

1. Initially, have the new cat in a confined, safe, relatively quiet area.

2. Provide easy access to food, water, litter box, and a soft sleeping area.

3. Give the cat both time to explore the area unhindered and time to play with you.

4. Don’t forget your resident cat! Keep the same or similar schedule and provide plenty of attention.

The Introduction

1. Begin a slow introduction process once the new cat is comfortable in her welcoming area (several days or longer).

2. Feed your resident cat and the newcomer on each side of the door to the room where the new cat is housed. Place the bowls at a distance where both cats are comfortable and will eat.

3. Gradually move the dishes closer to the door until both cats can eat calmly, directly on either side of the door.

4. Prop open the door just enough to allow the cats to see each other, and repeat the whole process.

Once your new cat is using her litter box and eating regularly while confined, let her have free time in the house while confining your other animals to the new cat's room. This switch provides another way for the animals to experience each other's scents without a face-to-face meeting. It also allows the newcomer to become familiar with her new surroundings without being frightened by the other animals.

Slow, Gradual, Positive

1. Gradually increase the time the cats are in the same area and observe their behavior.

2. Avoid any interactions between your pets that result in either fearful or aggressive behavior.

3. Make sure all cats have access to food, water, litter box, and safe hiding places

Remember to praise the cats for good behavior and you will create a positive atmosphere for both animals. When an adverse reaction occurs, separate the cats and start over with the introduction process in a series of very small, gradual steps, as outlined above.

Additional Considerations for Cat-Dog Introductions

1. Work with your dog on cues such as "sit," "down," "come," "stay," and "leave it."

2. Complete the initial introduction as described above.

3. Begin controlled meetings with the dog on leash in a sit or down stay. Praise the cat for staying in the same room, but do not physically restrain her. Praise the dog for calm behavior.

4. Frequent short visits are better than a few long visits. Don't drag out the visit so long that the dog becomes uncontrollable.  Repeat this step several times until both are comfortable.

5. Allow your cat freedom to explore your dog at her own pace, with the dog still on leash and in a down stay. Meanwhile, keep praising your dog for his calm behavior. If your cat runs away or becomes aggressive, you're progressing too fast. Go back to the previous introduction steps.

6. Supervise all interactions and separate the cat and dog when you are not home or unable to supervise.

7. Dogs will eat cat food and feces from the litter box – prevent both from occurring.