My friend passed away a couple of months ago and her husband has had to give away her 2 cats 1 boy 1 girl i agreed to take them into my home where my dog(13yo), fiancee and i live. The male cat had been around dogs before but acted very aggressively toward my dog at first then ran to hide. The little girl has always been a hider so she immediately ran and hid. I have put my dig in the other room so that they feel more comfortable to come and explore, but anytime i get close to them and their hiding spot the little boy growls, hisses and swats at me. Is there any tips anyone could offer to helpus to adjust? I have only had them for a day or so i knew this was to be exected but i would like to be proactive and see if anyone has any tips for me before this becomes a big problem.
Responses (1)
Keep the dog in a place where the cats can get in if they want but the dog can't get to the cats, such as place a baby gate and keep the dog in the kitchen or something. That way the cats don't feel threatened by the dog and can get used to him/her on their own terms.
As for the cats getting used to you, take a used piece of clothing such as a sock, shirt or something else that is small and place it in the hiding spot the cats have chosen. Scent is a huge thing for cats and dogs so getting used to it is important, then start hanging out around the area. They need to get used to you without feeling threatened