How to Introduce an Old Cat to a New Puppy

Puppies and kittens can be annoying and even frightening to older cats, who are beyond the age where they want to be pounced on and chased all the time. A better match than a puppy for your mature cat would be an cat-friendly adult dog with about the same activity level as your cat's. If your heart is set on adding a puppy to your family, plan the dog/cat introduction carefully to minimize stress for the cat, and don't be surprised if you see some behavior changes in your cat.

Things You'll Need

  • Baby gates
  • Crate for the puppy
  • Leash for the puppy
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Instructions

    • 1

      Research dog breeds carefully. Some, such as retrievers, are more cat-friendly than others. Sight hounds and some terriers are generally not good companions for cats.

    • 2

      Before the puppy arrives, use baby gates to establish a large puppy-free zone where the cat can have some toys that won't get chewed and use its litter box, eat and nap in peace. The puppy-free zone should be on one of the main levels of your home, not in the unfinished basement. Give the cat time to get used to spending time in its new space before bringing the puppy home.

    • 3

      Crate the puppy when you're not around to supervise. Until the puppy learns to respect the cat and its space, the dog and cat should not be left alone to "work things out." One or both could get hurt.

    • 4

      Keep the puppy on a leash for the first few days when it's around the cat. That's the only way you can be sure the puppy won't chase the cat. Chasing a cat who's running away is a difficult habit for a dog to break.

    • 5

      Teach the puppy some basic obedience commands, such as "sit," "stay," "leave it" and "no kitty." When the puppy starts to chase the cat, tell it to "sit" and "stay." Sound firm and in control. Reward the good behavior with treats.

    • 6

      Let the cat initiate contact with the puppy when it's ready. If the puppy approaches the cat uninvited, it's likely to get smacked in the face.

    • 7

      When the animals eat together, put the cat's food in a high place, like a table or counter. The puppy won't be able to reach the cat's food, and you'll be reinforcing the cat's top spot in the family hierarchy.

    • 8

      Lavish your cat with love and attention. Spend time with the cat where it feels most comfortable. Don't force it to go into a room where it thinks it might have to deal with the puppy.