How to Bring a New Kitten Into a House With Dogs

Cats and dogs are both popular pet types, but it is sometimes difficult to own both at the same time. They often instinctively do not get along because wild felines and canines compete against each other for food and territory. Dogs are more territorial than cats and sometimes see cats as prey; the enmity between pet cats and dogs is especially intense when a cat first becomes a part of a family. However, with a little bit of work, it is possible to introduce cats to dogs in a way that will allow the two to live together peacefully.

Things You'll Need

  • Private room
  • Food
  • Water
  • Litter pan
  • Crate
  • Leash
  • Pillow
  • Towel
  • Squirt gun
  • Baby gate
  • Counters
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the new kitten in a small, closed room with food, water and a litter pan. Give it time to become comfortable in its new surroundings and with every human family member. After a week has passed, allow it to explore the rest of the house and start to introduce it to the other pets.

    • 2

      Introduce the cat and dog while the dog is in a crate or on a secure leash. Allow them to see each other and sniff each other. If either animal seems upset or afraid, separate them. If the kitten or dog attacks the other, distract it by squirting it with water, or tossing a pillow or towel over it.

    • 3

      Ensure the kitten's safety by blocking off one room with a baby gate or another type of barrier that the kitten can cross but the dog cannot. Place the kitten's food and litter pan on a counter so that the dog cannot reach them. This will keep the kitten from feeling vulnerable and will prevent the dog from eating the food or litter.

    • 4

      Reintroduce the kitten and dog several times until they seem relaxed around each other. Once they are comfortable, allow them to interact freely with each other. Supervise them for a few days; if they are relaxed, they can be left alone with each other.