Start introducing pet step-siblings before walking down the aisle
Dear UrbanAnimal,I'm getting married soon and my two-year-old cat, Boo, will move with me to my husband's home, which includes a sweet, seven-year-old Labrador retriever-mix who has never lived with a cat. The dog chases and kills rodents so I know his prey-drive is quite active. Boo is a skittish cat and I'm worried about her safety. I've already taken her bed to my fiancee's house so the dog will get used to her scent. Is there anything else I can do?
Sandy
Hi Sandy,
You're off to a great start by introducing Boo's scent in advance of the big move.
The dog's prey-drive is absolutely normal and, while I understand your concern for your cat's safety, I think you'll be successful in integrating the two pets. This is actually a multi-part transition for Boo: she'll be living in a new home while learning to deal with the existing dog, plus share you with both the dog and your fiancee. The dog has a slight lead since he's remaining on his own turf, but, like Boo, he'll need to learn to share both space and attention.
Some cats are able to handle a change in domicile with no problem, while others spend weeks hiding in the rafters. Some cats will greet the existing dog with a warning hiss and swipe combined with a steady stare that reads "Don't mess with me," while others greet the dog by returning to the rafters for another week.
You won't know how Boo will handle things until the two animals meet and begin forging a relationship. They'll iron out their differences and stake out boundaries within a time frame suitable to their own levels of comfort.
You're on the right track by letting the dog become accustomed to Boo's scent and I suggest you continue bringing Boo-items to the dog and placing them throughout the house. In return, bring dog-scented items to your own home for Boo to sniff. A few toys or blankets the dog has slept on will carry enough scent to allow your cat to discover his existence.
Can you bring the dog to your home for Boo to meet on her own turf? A few visits (inside and outside your house) will help the two get to know each other, but it will be in Boo's territory where she feels secure and knows all the places to hide.
Put the dog on a leash and allow the animals to inspect each other from a distance. Don't force the issue, and try to remain calm. If Boo runs and hides, just let her go.
Even if she refuses to make an appearance while the dog is visiting, both pets have now seen the source of all those interestingly scented items.
Is it possible to bring Boo for a few visits to your fiancee's house prior to moving in? Again, put the dog on a leash and keep Boo securely in your arms or in a cat carrier. Allow the two pets to meet, but only when they're ready and you're close enough to supervise. If the dog lunges for Boo, say "No!" and put the dog in a sit position and offer a dog treat to show that good things happen when he doesn't chase the cat.
Cats have a fabulous way of psyching out a dog. We humans haven't quite figured out exactly how they do it, but many a feline has quietly worked her way to top pack position regardless of her smaller physical size and "I'm the victim" demeanor.
But while top cat's furry roommates may acknowledge her leadership qualities, they may occasionally challenge the situation. Until you're certain that dog and cat are comfortable together, supervise them adequately to avoid placing either in a dangerous position.
A cat chased by a dog to the top of a tree isn't a good situation, but neither is a cat claw embedded in a dog's nose.
While you're waiting for the two pets to sort out their household rules, be sure to pay equal attention to both to avoid jealousy. Play with the cat and dog as often as possible and give treats, toys, chin scratches and belly rubs when they're behaving well together.
I often brush my dogs while tossing a toy to my cats to ensure that all the pets know they're equally important, valued and loved.
Good luck and congratulations on your upcoming marriage.
E-mail jacque-newman@rogers.com with a question, comment or suggestion.
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