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Introduction of cats
I have an adopter who just adopted a hound. He does not seem to like their cat. They are keeping them separated for now. I would love some advice on how to safely introduce their cat to this new dog. Thank you!
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5 Replies
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Hi Jan! – When they say the hound “doesn’t like the cat”, what does that look like?
If the hound is being predatory, that’s going to be risky no matter what training is installed. If the hound is just annoyed by the cat, that’s perhaps workable. If the hound is protecting the couch from the cat…
See what I mean? There are so many possible scenarios. Are you able to get more information?
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I did get some additional information from the adopter. He seems to be very scared of the cat. He backs off but barks and growls, and this is when they are holding the cat. They have the cat on a lower level of a split level house and the dog on the main level. They can see each other from the stairs with a gate at the bottom, and he is still quite anxious and barking. I suggested that they completely cover the gated area so the dog can’t see the cat. I am just starting with every time the cat meows or the dog goes over to the stairs and orients to the cat that they give the dog high value food rewards to start changing the association. Exchange bedding (not sure if that helps). It definitely will be a gradual progression. Of course the cat is used to having the whole house to herself so is meowing quite a bit. Thanks!
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Oh! So the hound is fearful of the cat!? That’s super interesting. I wonder if the cat is outgoing enough that it will stalk the dog?!? Never an end with kitty drama in that case. Poor pup!
You are on the right track with CER to the kitty sight, smell and sounds. Nice job!
You may want to consider target-training the cat to lie on a mat in the presence of the dog. This could help when the two begin spending time seeing each other. It’s a better option for the cat to have agency (rather than being held) and also could provide a safe space, should the hound… find her “chase”.
I’d use a tall sturdy shelf that the cat can access but the dog cannot, as easily. Put soft bedding there and use a food or toy lure to get the cat to go there. Once she’s there you can mark and reward for settling in. You know the rest – it’s just like teaching a dog to go to mat!
This could help too, if the cat begins stalking the dog, or the dog is simply uncomfortable. By the cat having a station, everyone can relax a bit.
What do you think?
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Thanks Catherine. The cat is 14 years old and cannot really access high places. I thought if they had one of those cat trees, that could be helpful. Interesting info in training a cat to lie on a mat, hadn’t thought of that!
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@jan – sorry, I just saw your reply! If not up, than in! How about training the cat to go into a carrier, under a table or another hidey-hole? Should be a favorite as they generally like that idea. Boxes are “cat traps” ????
Meanwhile, lots of classical conditioning for the fearful pup, with the cat at a distance. Please keep us posted on how this goes!
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