My cat is protective of the new dog. How can I help her adjust?

Question

Hello, I have had a cat and dog for many years and they are best friends but I recently brought a 2 year old dog home who has seen the cat and smelled her but doesn't really care which is a good sign. The problem is my cat sees the dog through the backyard door and her instinct is to literally chase the dog away. Its been about a day and I am doing the usual feeding them on either side of a door and letting them smell each others scent but cat is protective. Any advice to help the cat adjust? Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 2 years and 8 months old | 10.9 lbs

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

It can take quite awhile for cats to get used to new pets in the family. I would continue to let them see and smell each other through the door but would wait at least a week before they are in the same room. Make sure Luna has plenty of escape routes - safe spaces that are up high are ideal. You could also try using a pheromone spray or diffuser like Feliway wherever Luna can see the dog to help her relax.

My cat is protective of the new dog. How can I help her adjust?

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