Introducing Cats and Dogs
In animal movies and old cartoons, cats and dogs are archenemies, instinctively irreconcilable foes. Fortunately for pet lovers everywhere, the actual situation isn't quite so hopeless as all that. Temperament and other factors prevent some animals from getting along. Many dogs and cats, however, can live together peacefully.
A proper introduction is the first step in establishing a good relationship between a cat and a dog. The introduction will go much more smoothly if the dog has had some obedience training. Also keep in mind that scent is far more important to animals than it is to humans, so you should let the animals smell each others' bedding before they actually meet in person. And until the cat and dog are accustomed to one another and on friendly terms, keep them in different areas of the house while you're away.
When it's time for the cat and dog to meet, put a leash on the dog and tell it to stay. Then someone else should enter the room with the cat and sit on the far side of the room. The cat will probably be nervous even if the dog shows no aggression. Keep up these meetings until no fear or hostility persists on either side. Then slowly move the animals closer together, being sure to move them apart again if problems arise.
Here are some tips: if the cat doesn't like to be held you can put it in a carrier during the meetings. Also be sure to keep the dog on a leash so it can't get at the cat. And don't just correct the dog while the cat is around; also reward the dog in the presence of the cat. Otherwise the dog will come to associate the cat with negative feelings.
