Contributed by Angie Lewis
Some dogs and cats can live in the same household and become best friends, while others will never be able to do so safely. Individuality is crucial here with personalities playing a huge part in certain dogs and cats developing friendships. Introductions will therefore need to be dealt with individually as well.
A knowledge of body language, for both dogs and cats, is vital. Pay particular attention to the dog’s body language. Look for a stiffening body, staring, whining, and barking. When this happens, do not allow the dog to go near the cat. A relaxed, loose body stance is what you want to see. If the kitty’s ears are pinned back and her tail is swishing back and forth, she is not in the happiest of moods. Remember that the location of the interaction is important as well. The animals may do well inside the house, but outside is often very different. Cats are more often seen as prey when they are outside.
Be flexible when choosing a method for introducing a dog and a cat. It is best to have at least two people available – one for the dog and one for the cat. If you have more than one dog, just introduce one at a time.
If your dog seems too fixated on your cat, you will want to desensitize him to the kitty by gradually increasing his exposure to her. Put the cat in a room, that your dog cannot access, and separate them with a baby gate. Do this various times of the day. This way they are separate, but they can still see each other. Make sure that your cat cannot escape over or under the gate. Stock the kitty’s room with food, litter box, or toys to meet her needs.
To begin desensitization, let the dog view the cat briefly through the gate, and then get the dog to focus on something else, such as playing with a toy or practicing training cues. Sometimes it helps to keep the dog on leash so that you can move him away from the cat when you try to refocus his attention. Praise and reward the dog for being able to focus elsewhere. Continue to give the dog short viewings of the cat throughout the day. If the dog is too excited to see the cat, simply close the door and feed each animal on his/her side of the door. Feed them close to the door, this way each animal associates good food smells with proximity to the other pet.
This process might take days, or it could take months. It is possible that the dog and cat will never get used to each other and you will have to keep them separate in your household. Keeping them safe must be your first priority.
Another faster introduction technique is the face-to-face introduction. One person should hold the dog on a loose lead, constantly monitoring the dog’s body language. If the cat is not showing aggressive or stressed body language, then she can be allowed to move around freely. Have your dog sit or lay down. If he is maintaining his composure, reward him verbally or with treats.
There is another strategy called, “Look at That” and it would be best to talk to an actual dog trainer about this. This involves you teaching your dog to look at your cat momentarily, but then to look at a treat in your hands. He will discover that it is more rewarding to look at your treat, than it is to pay attention to the cat.
Animals with good past experience often adjust well and quickly to a new pet in the house. But if introductions don’t go well, seek help from a professional dog trainer or behavior consultant. Don’t ever use punishment: It will not help and it could make matters much worse.
Angie Lewis
Palmer
