Can A 20 Week Old Husky Be Good With A Older Cat In The House?

Robwine9,



 The dog and cat relationship is loosely based on the
predator-prey model.  This does not mean
dogs and cats can't be housemates.  It is
easier to train a younger dog to co-exist with cats.  Puppyhood is the time when their future
behaviors can be molded the best.  

 

Introducing a new pet to existing pets should be done slowly
and monitored at all times.  First let
them be in separate areas of the house with a closed door between them.  Next open the door and place a baby gate so
they can see each other but not interact.  Then with the dog on a leash in a controlled,
calm environment work on having them in the same room.  

Let the cats dictate the future relationship.  Some cats will interact and even play with
dogs.  Other cats want nothing to do with
dogs and just want to co-exist peacefully but not interact.  If you cat wants nothing to do with the dog
teach to dog to ignore the cat by keeping the dog on a leash and every time it
looks or goes to interact with the cat popping it's leash or spraying it with a
water bottle—something that will be negative (but not painful) for the puppy.

 Do not leave the new
dog with the cats unsupervised for a minimum of 3-6 months until you are very
comfortable with how they are interacting. 
It will help if the cats do not run and even pop the dog in the nose as
a warning a time or two.  When cats or
other small animals run the dog's instinct is to chase like a predator.  If introduced appropriately dogs and cats can
both be a part of your household.



Ann Falk, DVM

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