How to Get a Cat Used to a New Puppy

Ideally, you want to introduce a cat to a puppy (as opposed to a grown dog) as the puppy has no history of chasing or teasing cats. The puppy is also smaller and easier to train to get along with the cat. Even the smoothest introductions, however, will cause some sort of stress for both animals.

Things You'll Need

  • Large room
  • Leash
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Confine the cat, puppy and yourself to one room where the cat can run freely and hide from the puppy if need be. Be sure you can see both animals. Sit back and relax and set the puppy down, making sure he is securely on leash.

    • 2

      Allow the dog and cat to wander where they will. Don't force the two to meet but allow them to go to each other on their own. Praise them for being good during the encounter. Do not allow the puppy to chase the cat or encourage that behavior. Do not allow the cat to be aggressive towards the dog.

    • 3

      Bring the cat and dog together three to five times a day for five-minute introduction sessions. Always keep the puppy on a leash when he's around the cat until they are friendly to each other. Despite being on a leash, allow the dog to explore the room as well. Praise friendliness and correct any aggression with a stern "no!"

    • 4

      Gauge how your cat and puppy are reacting to each other (see Warnings below). When they are both comfortable, take the dog off-leash during one of the intro sessions. See the tips section on how to tell when the puppy is ready to go off-leash. Continue to supervise off-leash sessions and don't try to rush their "friendship." Once the animals are completely comfortable with each other, you can start increasing the length of time they are together off-leash until you can leave them alone together.