introducing a shy cat to a new dog

17 years ago

Hello all. I haven't posted here before, but have been reading all the posts from the pet lovers here. We have a 6-year old neutered male cat, Panda, who's very shy with anyone other than his immediate family. We just recently, (3 weeks ago) adopted a 1-year female dog (named Belle) from a no-kill shelter. Belle is very friendly towards other dogs and all humans. She was cat tested at the shelter, by the staff and again in my presence before we finalized her adoption. She showed no interest in them, beyond a few sniffs.

Panda is at the current time residing in our family room, which is located in the basement of our home. There is a cat door which he can access the upstairs floors if he so chooses. His litter box, food and water and all his cushy beds and toys are downstairs as well. We all spend time down there daily, (computer is down there as well) and he seems happy and content. However, we are anxious to have him rejoin us on the upper floors! I have taken Belle downstairs into the family room (on a leash) and let her sniff around. The last few times, the cat has not dashed away and hid, but rather stayed up on the chair for a few seconds. As soon as Belle progressed closer, however, Panda ran off and hid.

I know not to rush this, but am beginning to fear that Panda will never feel comfortable upstairs with Belle. The dog is still crated while I am at work, and sleeps in our bedroom at night, so Panda could conceivably come upstairs during those times.

I should mention that Belle will be starting dog school next week, and was raised by an elderly owner who really was unable to teach her any commands. We have just started mastering the art of walking nicely on a leash, and eating dog food for the first time.

I guess my question is, are we on the right track with the introductions? Belle keeps sticking her face into the cat door and whining, especially if one of us is downstairs with the cat. I don't want her to become jealous of Panda. We make sure we are projecting a calm, friendly demeanor when we take Belle downstairs and praise her when she remains calm and not pulling on the leash to get to Panda.

Does anyone here have any other ideas? Thanks in advance, and my apologies for the LONG post!

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Comments (4)

laurief_gw
17 years ago
It sounds to me like you are doing everything exactly right. Just keep doing what you're doing. Take Belle down to the basement for brief, on-leash visits so that she and Panda can become accustomed to each other's scent and presence. It'll take time, but Panda will eventually trust that Belle will not be allowed to harrass or hurt him in any way and will start to relax in her presence. At some point, Panda will start coming upstairs again, most likely in the middle of the night when things are quiet and dark. In time, he'll start reappearing during daylight hours, too.

Three weeks isn't much time. It's waaaay too early to be getting discouraged. If you're still not seeing Panda upstairs in three months, he might need a little encouragement. But your instincts are correct about not rushing things. Let Panda set the pace. He'll come upstairs when he's ready.

Relax. You're on the right track.

Laurie
labmomma
17 years ago
Don't worry, it will work out. I have 3 lg dogs and three male cats. The most recent addition, kitten was and still is somewhat skittish with people, but he holds his own with my 90 lb Labradors. Over the years we have adopted cats that just appear on our property. They have always meshed in both with the felines and canines. You cannot rush it though. Sounds like you have the perfect setup, i.e. your cat can explore and escape when he feels threatened or has had enough. We always gate off an area where the dogs can't get to the new addition until everyone is friendly. This last addition (came on the 4th of July) was the most difficult because the middle child cat got his panties in a twist and was downright vile toward the kitten. My daughter was so distraught that it wouldn't workout. I assured her that given time and patience, the two cats would be the best of friends. It actually didn't take as long as I anticipated. About 2 full weeks. Today,I came home from work to find the two snuggled together asleep on my bed. Relax and enjoy watching the dynamic of the pets making friends! Best of luck.
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cynthia_gw
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You're doing everything right! Make sure you have escape routes upstairs for your kitty. I removed a pane of glass at the bottom of the french doors to living room (no one notices) so the kitties have access but the dogs don't. Plus baby gates in regular doorways mounted 6"-8" above the threshold will stop the dogs but permit the kitty to go in or out of any room.

It does take time - 6 to 9 months is not unreasonable for a kitty who is not used to sharing their home with dogs, but you should see regular progress. Taking the dog down on leash is a great idea. Be patient! It will work out :-)
gardenut213
Original Author
17 years ago
Thank you ladies for your replies! I feel more relaxed about the situation now. I'll post back in a few weeks. Have a great day!

introducing a shy cat to a new dog

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introducing a shy cat to a new dog

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