Puppies have no history of chasing cats, and will readily accept the cat. Older cats might show some reluctance, some hissing at the beginning (mine did, well at least one of them, the other one was just curious), but this will eventually turn either into a “best buddy relationship” or, at least, in tolerating each other. Every animal responds different, just be prepared that they either sleep together and groom each other or just pass each other on the way to the food bowl without showing any signs of recognition

In any case, be careful when introducing the new, smaller animal. Watch the behavior and be ready to interfere if the situation gets a little out of hand. I’d highly recommend to NOT let them sleep in the same room for at least a week, in some cases even longer. Cats tend to roam around at night, dogs - like people - sleep. A kitten/cat could easily annoy the dog with it’s roaming habits during the night.

Give them time to adjust to each other, to get to know each other. Make sure that the cat does not practice sharpening it’s claws at the dog’s nose. Dogs are very sensitive and will respond with biting the newcomer eventually. Or, he will just go away and never want to see the cat again.

If you are reluctant to bring a young dog into your house and you happen to find a grown dog that is used to cats, give it a try. A dog who already lived with cats will accept your residence cat easy, your cat will adjust to him eventually. I personally am a little concerned about the weight difference, but if you can avoid ruff play betweent the two so nobody gets hurt, it should work out.

Special Precautions
To prevent bringing home disease with your new cat/dog/rabbit make sure your resident cat is vaccinated. Every animal brought into your house as addition should also be current on necessary vaccinations. Wherever you adopt from, a shelter, a friend, a neighbor, a pet shop, make sure that the animal is properly protected.

Very few diseases can be passed from cats to dogs. A proper health check is absolutely required though.

Whatever newcomer you decide upon, make sure your residence cat does not feel neglected. Many pet owners make the mistake to pay too much attention to the new additon, and forget about the residence animal. Animals can become jealous and their behavior will worsen, such as urinating outside the litter box, rejecting food, scratching, etc. Make sure to let your residence animal feel that you love it!

The majority of cat owners have more than one animal in their household. Some have two or more cats, some have cats and dogs. If you have the time don’t hesitate to add more pleasure to your live!

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