My cat attacks my dog since moving. How to introduce them safely?

Question

Had to move in with daughter who has 14yr cat and I've 3yr old dog been there 2 nights both nights cat has viciously attacked my dog mainly on his nose and below his eye which drew a lot blood on both days can you please advice me or dog will have to go to kennels thank you trisha. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 3 years and 2 months old

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

I would be glad to help you! I'm very sorry Coco was attacked by the cat. It could be that at night, Coco is trying to play with the cat, and the cat (who isn't used to dogs) is reacting with aggression. It could also be that the cat simply doesn't like dogs and doesn't want to share her home. Depending on how long you have to live with your daughter, I can suggest a method to make them more comfortable with each other so Coco doesn't have to go to the kennels. Introducing them should be done slowly. I would keep them in rooms separated by a door. Make sure the cat has a litter box, food, and water in her room. This way, they can get used to the smells and sounds of each other without contact. You can also place a blanket with Coco's smell in the cat's room, and a blanket with the cat's smell in Coco's room. I would also consider get a Feliway for the 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 Coco'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 Coco on a leash to the cat while she is in a cat carrier or on the other side of a baby gate. Reward the dog for being calm and quiet near the cat. Once they seem comfortable with each other, the baby gate can be taken away. Make sure the cat has a cat tree where she can escape from the dog as needed, and I would keep them separated at night until they are getting along better. Hope this helps :-)

My cat attacks my dog since moving. How to introduce them safely?

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