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New dog made my cat depressed. How do I help her feel better?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male

My cat is depressed because we got a dog how do I make her happy again?!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 21st, 2016

Adding a new pet to the house is often stressful for the existing pet. I would make sure you continue to provide her with plenty of love and attention. Do not force her to interact with the new dog, and let her hide from it as that is how she is dealing with the stress. She will adjust to the dog over time, but if she starts shows signs of aggression to you or the dog, some behavioral modifications will have to be done as she isn't adjusting well. Give her treats, play with her, and continue to show the same amount of love and attention you had given her previously so she doesn't feel replaced.

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14Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    Adding a new pet to the household can be stressful for many cats. You can start by giving her plenty of time and space to adjust. Make sure she has a room or area of the house that is off-limits to the dog, with her litter box, food and water bowls, and some comfy beds or a cat tree. Make sure that the dog is not allowed to chase or harass her, especially when she is in her "safe zone." Spend some one-on-one time with her each day in this area, snuggling or playing with her. You can also help her by providing high resting places in the rest of the house, like cat trees or beds/blankets on top of furniture, so that she can spend time in these areas and still get away from the dog if she wishes. You may also want to consider using a pheromone product such as Feliway to help decrease stress and anxiety in your kitty while she adjusts.

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