Dog Meets Cat: 3 Tips for Helping Your Pets Get Along

Dog cuddling with cat

Dogs and cats may sometimes seem like polar opposites, but the truth is that with a little help, these furry companions can coexist and become lifelong friends.

If you are planning to introduce a new dog or cat into a family with the opposite pet, try these three tips to help them get along!

Conduct a successful introduction

Helping your dog and cat get along starts with a successful introduction.

Dog cuddling with cat

When you first bring home a new dog or cat, keep him separated from your previous pet. Allow both dog and cat to roam your home individually at separate times, giving them the chance to learn each other’s scent.

Set a meeting between your pets where you keep your dog on a leash and allow the animals to be in the same room together and continue these supervised meetings until the dog and cat seem relaxed.

Give your cat some space

Cats need their own separate space to feel safe and secure.

Use height to your cat’s advantage with tall cat trees or shelves around the house to give your cat some vertical space from which to observe your dog. Cats enjoy climbing, and giving them the space to safely roam around the dog helps them acclimate to this new, shared environment.

Pay attention to your dog

Dogs love attention and stimulation—it is part of their energetic and fun nature. Because of their high energy, it is easy for dogs to get overwhelmed at the presence of a new kitty.

To help your dog and cat get along, make it a point to take your dog for walks and get their daily dose of exercise in!

Giving your dog a way to release his pent-up energy through walking and playing outside will help him better control himself when he is around your cat.

When you want to give your dog and cat a little break from each other or need a little help, call up Hill Country Pet Sitters Plus for pet sitting, dog walking, private boarding, and more!