Hey Dog Lovers,
This month is Cat Lovers month and although I am not the biggest cat lover I wanted to share some training involving both dogs and cats. There is a very easy and safe way to introduce your dogs to cats and vice versa. Most people just bring the cat/dog in and expect there to be peace when that is not the case at all. Below I have provided Steps to introductions between cats and dogs. Please take a read and share as so many dogs get returned to shelters for bad behaviors like chasing the cat when that is not their fault.
Getting Started
- Make sure the cat has access to a dog-free sanctuary at all times (Room with all necessities (litter box, toys, scratch post, food and water bowls) and secure door and ceilings
- Be prepared to manage your pet’s interactions for the next several weeks, if not longer
- Living space should ideally have high areas for cats to escape to
Keep Pets Separate at First
- For the first 3-4 days
- Prevent contact until both are cleared by vet with health and shots
Feed them on opposite sides of the closed door
Goal to teach them to associate the presence of the other pet with pleasant things such as food. Each feeding move the bowels a little closer to the closed door, continue until they can eat right next to each other.
Teach Basic Commands
Is dog is new make sure he knows : sit, down and leave it. Keep training sessions short and pleasant.
Begin Face-to-Face meetings
Neutral room in the house (living room, kitchen) not one of their sanctuaries. Keep dog on leash and let the cat, come and go as they want. DO NOT physically restrain either one in your arms to avoid injury to all parties involved. Reward and correct as needed.
Repeat Sessions Daily
Repeat face-to-face sessions daily. Try to end each session before with pet shows stress or aggression
Allow Pets loose together
When the animals appear to be getting along well, allow them loose in the room together, keeping the dogs leash attached and dragging on the floor. If tension erupts, go back to the earlier introduction steps and repeat the process.
Proceed with Caution
Continue to separate the pets when you are not there to supervise them
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