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Make sure the cat’s bed, cat tower and/or hidey hole, food and water dishes, litter box, and toys are ready for her arrival. Put your cat in her carrier if she's a scaredy-cat by nature; otherwise let her walk around. You’ll need to decide where and how to let them have those important first interactions. Be armed with lots of treats for good behavior. The answer is simply yes, says Dr. Liz Bales, a Philadelphia veterinarian. You can switch rooms several times during the introductory period. Keep a barrier between them initially. Put your dog on a short leash or in his crate. Introducing a puppy to a cat involves planning and preparation.
Keep the first meeting short – if it goes well, schedule another short one soon after. As long as pet parents take their time and follow a few simple rules for introducing cats to dogs, there’s no reason why felines and canines can’t develop a … Allow your puppy to occupy the room where your cat has been and your cat to occupy the room your puppy has vacated. Introducing your new puppy to the existing cat is likely to be a stressful experience for both animals; however, if it is done correctly, both pets can be kept safe and reasonably calm while a positive relationship is formed. If you don’t already have a cat tree, consider getting one so she can observe the goings-on from a high spot where she feels secure. Your cat may hiss and growl, but that’s natural. Introduce your Lab to the new cat in a place that is relatively neutral to both. Once both puppy and cat are comfortable with the scents and smells of one another, it’s time to introduce them face-to-face. Offer words of comfort and praise to them both, and give treats for good behavior. If you have a resident cat and are thinking of bringing a new puppy home, it’s normal to be concerned about how she will react. Let dog and cat check each other out at a distance. Helping a Cat Adjust to Life with a Lab Your kitty needs safe places away from the dog. Allow your cat to roam free while your Lab remains sitting or lying down at your side. Be sure your is Lab leashed and the new cat is confined safely. If you are introducing a new cat to your existing Labrador, have all the amenities your cat will need before the first encounter. Make Sure Your Labrador Is Calm By Stacia Friedman. Can cats get along with dogs? Also, provide her with a dog-free room or closet, where she can eat, drink and use the litter box without being interrupted.
Watch for signs of personality clashes such as timidity or aggression.
Correct any attempts by your dog to spring towards the cat or behave in an aggressive manner.