INTRODUCING YOUR NEW CAT TO YOUR DOGs

Introducing a New Cat to Your Home

When bringing a new cat into your home, it's essential to set up a "safe room" where the cat can stay for at least the first week. This room should be quiet, have a door, and provide constant access to food, water, a litter box, and a scratching post (see our separate recommended list for details).

If you have both cats and dogs, ensure your resident cats are introduced to the newcomer before introducing the new cat to your dogs.

First Week: Keeping It Low-Stress

For the first week, avoid any face-to-face interaction between the new cat and your resident dog. Bring the cat inside in a carrier and take them directly to the safe room. Do not introduce them to other pets until the cat has adjusted and seems comfortable with the human members of the household.

Most cats will hide for the first few days but should gradually become interactive when they feel safe. Once your new cat is comfortable with you, you can begin introductions with your dog.

Introducing Your Cat to Your Dog

When introducing the cat and dog:

• The dog should always be on a leash or in a crate.

• Allow the cat to approach the dog at their own pace—this may be their first time outside the safe room.

• All interactions should be supervised and occur during calm times of the day.

Managing the First Meeting

• Watch their first interaction closely. Let them sniff each other while ensuring the dog remains restrained.

• Be prepared with a towel or squirt bottle in case of aggressive behavior.

• If either pet shows fear or aggression, separate them and try again later.

• Even if the first meeting goes well, repeat controlled introductions several times before allowing them to be together unsupervised.

Special Considerations for Kittens

If your new cat is a kitten, be extra cautious. Large dogs may unintentionally harm a kitten simply due to their size and strength.

Additionally, some dog breeds have a strong instinct to chase or act aggressively toward cats. Carefully evaluate your dog’s behavior and supervise interactions accordingly.

Tips for a Harmonious Home

• Use calming remedies: Bach Flower Remedies can help ease tensions.

  • "Holly" for reducing aggression: Link

  • "Rock Water" for dominant pets: Link

  • "Vine" for calming bullies: Link

  • "Walnut" for adjusting to change: Link

  • "Willow" for resentment: Link

• Create safe spaces: Provide multiple sleeping/nesting spots. Cats especially appreciate high resting areas, like cat trees or shelves, where they can retreat safely.

• Separate food and litter areas:

  • Place cat food out of the dog’s reach—on a counter or in a dog-proof area.

  • Litter boxes should be in quiet, accessible locations where cats won't feel cornered.

When It’s Not Working

Despite your best efforts, some pets may not accept a new cat. If, after one month, your resident pets continue to show aggression and no progress is made, it may not be a suitable match. If needed, refer to your Adoption Agreement for return policies or contact info@desertcatopia.org for guidance.