There Are No Strangers Here, Only Friends You Haven’t Met

Written by Donna Dybus

Expert Contributor and Director of The Spayed Club Clinic

In an ideal world, all cats and dogs would get along with each other. But cats and dogs can be territorial and possessive of their space and family members. For your safety and happiness, and that of your pets, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Follow these tips to encourage a successful meet-and-greet.

Introducing Two or More Cats or Introducing a Cat and Dog

• Time is of the essence! Most cats adjust poorly to new situations or changes in their environment. Give them time as adjustments can take weeks or longer.

• Isolate the new cat in a room or large crate for at least 7–10 days. This separation allows the pets to get accustomed to hearing and smelling each other. Take a toy or blanket each pet enjoys playing or sleeping with and place it by the food bowl of the other pet. They will smell each other’s scent as they are happily eating their food and associate it with good things.

• Next, let the pets interact through a barely opened door (just large enough for a nose or front paw). Hissing, growling and posturing are all natural reactions and will likely decrease in time. Talk to them in a calm voice, sending the message that all is good.

• When the pets are calm around each other, introduce them face to face, but stay close to supervise.

• Precautions about kittens and puppies: an energetic or predatory dog can injure or kill a kitten or puppy, so never leave them alone around each other until the young one is grown.

• If introductions do not go smoothly, consult an animal behaviorist/trainer.

Introducing Two Dogs

• Plan the meet-and-greet on neutral ground where neither dog is likely to feel territorial.

• Leash each dog and calmly walk them side-by-side. While maintaining a safe distance, cross paths and let them smell where the other dog has walked.

• Remember to give some delicious treats, to promote a positive association.

• Next, let the dogs approach each other while closely watching their body language. If aggressive snapping or lunging happens, consider consulting an animal behaviorist/trainer.

• If the dogs show no signs of aggression, take them to a safe area without their leashes. Give them space to get to know each other but continue to closely supervise.

Donna Dybus

484-540-8436

www.TheSpayedClubClinic.org

800 Chester Pike, Sharon Hill, PA 19079

Conveniently located 9 short miles from Marple!

Affordable, High Quality Veterinary Care

Veterinary Examination for Dog or Cat – $40

See our website for a list of services and transparent pricing.

The Mission of The Spayed Club Clinic

Eliminate unnecessary dog & cat euthanasia through affordable veterinary care and spay/neuter surgeries.

The Spayed Club is a 501(c)3 non-profit charity organization.