1st May 2006

Help! I'm having trouble introducing my rescue dog to my two established cats.

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Question:

I have had my rescue dog, Bob, for three weeks and am having trouble introducing him to my two established cats. They are currently eating together with Bob on a lead. I'm frightened to let him off because he keeps chasing the cats - what should I do?

Answer:

You need to wait until Bob takes no further notice of them and accepts them completely before letting him off the lead. Even then, it is a good idea to let him drag a line around so that you can stand on it quickly, should he decide to run after them. It can sometimes take months before a new dog settles into a household with cats, so be patient. Arrange as many controlled encounters between them as possible. Ask your dog to lay down or tie him so that he cannot move around much. Encourage the cats into the room, perhaps with food, and allow them to settle and get up high if they want to. Talk to them and make a fuss of them to let Bob know that they are part of his pack, and make a fuss of him, too, when he behaves well. After many sessions, Bob should begin to relax more quickly and no longer watch them so intently. Gradually, you can allow him more freedom. If you are in any doubt, muzzle Bob, but get him used to wearing the muzzle beforehand so that he doesn't associate it with the cats. Swap scents between dog and cats by stroking both without washing your hands in between and swapping cloths placed in their beds. Be patient - it may take a long time, but if you do it slowly, you will build a trust between them and, gradually, they will begin to accept each other.