How to stop my new shelter dog from chasing my 8-year-old cat?

Question

Got a shelter dog 3 days ago. This Lab mix goes after my 8 yr old cat. How do I stop this? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 6 months old

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Introducing them should be done slowly. For now, I would keep them in rooms separated by a door. Make sure your cat has a litter box, food, and water in their room. This way, they can get used to the smells and sounds of each other without contact. You can also place a blanket with the Rocky's smell in the cat's room, and a blanket with the cat's smell in the Rocky's room. I would also consider get a Feliway for your cat and a DAP for your dog. These are pheromone diffusers that help with anxiety and should also help ease the transition. Once both pets seem relaxed with the current situation, swap rooms placing the cat in the Rocky's room and vice versa. You can do this switch several times over the course of the introductions. Once they are both comfortable with the smells of each other, it's time for them to meet face to face. I would introduce Rocky on a leash to the cat while he is in a cat carrier or on the other side of a baby gate. Reward him for being calm and quiet near the cat. Once they seem comfortable with each other, the baby gate can be taken away. Make sure your cat has a cat tree where he can escape from Rocky as needed. If Rocky starts chasing the cat, immediately stop him from doing this, and separate him from the cat with a barrier. Praise him and give him treats when he interacts appropriately with the cat, reinforcing that behavior.

How to stop my new shelter dog from chasing my 8-year-old cat?

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