Dogs To Cats
Cats
that have had positive experiences with dogs early in life are
more likely to welcome a new pet dog. Before introducing a cat
to a dog, it is important to determine if the dog will harm the
cat.
Some adult dogs that have never previously seen
a cat show no aggression toward one. If a dog's predatory
instinct toward cats is strong, however, it is likely
to be displayed immediately and with little advance warning.
For this reason, restrain the dog on a firmly held leash
and do not allow the cat to come within the dog's biting
range.
If you have adopted an adult dog, ask the previous
owner, if possible, about the dogs past interactions with
cats. If the dog has had no previous contact with cats,
proceed with caution. If you have acquired your new dog
from a local shelter, ask the staff to test the dog's
tolerance to cats before you take it home.
Even if there is no reason to suspect a problem,
you should still restrain your new dog when it meets your
cat. Young puppies (younger than 3 months) are unlikely
to harm an adult cat. Though there are always exceptions,
young animals are unlikely to turn against other animals
when they are raised together.
Cats To Dogs
Most of the guidelines suggested for introducing a cat to a dog
apply here. Proceed cautiously. As long as the dog is restrained
on a leash and the cat is free to escape, rely on the dog's
initial reaction to the cat. If your dog guards its food
or other objects, retrain it or take preventive measures.
A cat that approaches a dog guarding its food may risk injury.
A common concern among dog owners is that a cat will scratch
their dog's face and, in particular, its eyes. This concern
may be less common when an unfamiliar dog is introduced
to a resident cat. A cat will rarely attack a dog without
provocation unless it is cornered or threatened. Most dogs
have a long muzzle and quick reflexes that adequately protect
their eyes from cats. Your dog S eyes are more likely to
be injured from flying debris when its head protrudes from
your car window. Any traumatic corneal lacerations caused
by a cat usually heal well with prompt veterinary care.
New
Cat to Existing Cat | New
Dog to Existing Dog | New Dog or Cat to Existing
Dog or Cat
