Introducing a dog and a cat to each other

[Blackhawk]

My dog (4 year old Vizla bitch) has been living with my family for the last year. I'm picking her up in July when OH and I are settled after being married and have finished a house move.

We currently have a cat who is 8 months old. Dog and cat have never met.

I'm trying to figure out the best way possible to introduce them without causing either any distress.

 

[hadleigh]

most of my dogs have been brought up with the cats from puppies so the cats taught them their manners! However, we rehomed a 6 month old rottie who had never lived with cats before. She thought the cat was a toy and did chase her for a while. I found the most effective deterrent was a spray bottle. If she tried to chase the cat she got sprayed and told no. Works pretty well!

 

[CAYLA]

You could also use a long line.....i.e lung rope, allow the dog to approach the cat and if it reacts badly i.e lunges or tries to nip at cat as above post suggests, spray the dog with water, and give a harsh tug and command LEAVE for example.
Atleast having the dog on the line gives u some control just to be on the safe side.

If the cat has not met a dog b4 she may also take the horrors.

If I introduce a new rescue, I crate it first so it can see/get used to the cat through the safety of the bars.

If I have a new dog in I always lock the cat up in a bedroom whenever I go out, even if they are crated just to be safe, until they are used to each other.

GOOD LUCK

 

[seza]

I find a swift punch on the nose very effective. I only had to do it 2 or 3 times and the sheepdog that had come to visit stayed well way from the cats!

 

[CAYLA]

Well actually thats my method

I will admit now u have LOL