Raising a Kitten & Puppy Together

Although many people think dogs and cats are mortal enemies, if they are raised together from a young age these animals can get along without trouble. When a puppy is still young, it has not fully developed the predatory instincts that prompt dogs to chase after smaller animals, such as cats. Growing up together, these animals will get to know each other better and be less threatened by the other animal's presence.

  1. Playtime

    • The easiest way to let a puppy and kitten get used to each other is through playing with each other. Still, never allow a new puppy and kitten to interact unsupervised. The young animals may play too rough and accidentally hurt each other if you aren't around to stop them. If you wear perfume often, apply a drop to your hands and pet both your kitten and dog before they interact. This creates a communal smell that the animals will recognize on each other. Once the animals realize they both have the same scent it may help them bond and accept each other, according to the book "Training Your Dog the Humane Way," by Alana Stevenson.

    Feeding Time

    • Feed each kitten and puppy at separate feeding stations at the same time, otherwise the kitten or puppy may get curious about what the other animal is eating and try some. Some animals are protective of their food and may get angry at others trying to steal it. Feeding them at the same time will prevent this because each animal will be too busy with its own food to bother with what's in the other animal's dish. One way to prevent the puppy from eating the kitten's food is to place the food up on a table or counter where the puppy can't reach it. Most kittens do not care for dog food and won't attempt to eat it.

    Training

    • Puppies can be trained not to chase after kittens, according to the book "You Can Train Your Cat" by Gregory Popovich. Put a leash and collar on your puppy and have someone bring the kitten slowly toward the puppy. When the puppy sits still and doesn't lunge or try to chase after the cat, praise it and give it a treat. Continue to bring the kitten closer and continue to praise the puppy if it behaves. If the puppy does try to chase the cat, pull back on its leash and say ̶0;no̶1; or ̶0;leave it.̶1; The puppy will soon realize that chasing after the cat displeases you.

    Private Space

    • Since cats are nocturnal and sleep a lot during the day, give your kitten its own room or private space where it can sleep without being disturbed by the puppy. Train the puppy not to go in this room or enter the private space. If you see the puppy trying to get into the room, immediately correct it by telling it ̶0;no̶1; or ̶0;leave it̶1; in a firm voice. This private space will also give your kitten a quiet, safe place to retreat where it won't feel threatened or stressed by the puppy, according to "Training Your Dog the Humane Way." Place the kitten's litter box or food in this area as well so the kitten can get to them without the dog interfering.