How to introduce a new cat to my dog without hurting her feelings?

Question

I have a 5 yr old dorkie and want to get a cat. I sadly lost mine a yr ago. Olivia is very much mine and stays by me all the time. I feel like I need to be able to appropriately bond with the cat but I don’t think I can hurt Olivia’s feelings. Eventually the cat will be indoor/outdoor but in the beginning only inside. I don’t really know how to address the issue with Olivia. Will she be ok? What’s your best advice. These pictures are Olivia all the time. Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 18 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

I'm so sorry your lost your cat a year ago. If you do decide to get another cat, I can give you a way to introduce them. Introducing them should be done slowly. When you first bring your cat home, I would keep them in rooms separated by a door. This way, they can get used to the smells and sounds of each other without contact. Make sure your cat has a litter box, food, and water in their room. You can also place a blanket with the Olivia's smell in the cat's room, and a blanket with the cat's smell in the Olivia's room. I would also consider get a Feliway for your cat and a DAP for Olivia. 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 Olivia'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 Olivia on a leash to the cat while he is in a cat carrier or on the other side of a baby gate. Reward Olivia 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 Olivia as needed, and don't allow Olivia to chase the cat. I hope this helps!

How to introduce a new cat to my dog without hurting her feelings?

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