Training Video: How to introduce a puppy to a cat

Pooch and Mutt's expert trainer, Jon, has taken us through how to go about introducing a new puppy to a cat, in this step-by-step training video. 

When bringing a new puppy home, it might be that you already have some other furry inhabitants! When preparing for the meeting, it's important you take not only the puppy's happiness and safety into consideration - but your cat's too!

Introducing a puppy to your cat: Top Tips

• If you already have a cat, it is a good idea to seek the opinion of your puppy’s breeder about how their bloodline gets on with cats. 

• Initially, use a puppy pen to control your pup's response to the cat. This will allow you to safely assess their response when the cat is brought into the room.

  Bring the cat into the room and if possible, sit with them on your lap, near the pen.

• When your puppy takes interest in the cat, don’t try to distract it with food or treats. You won’t always be around to do this, and your pup needs to learn how to behave appropriately.

• If the puppy shows interest for a while but is well-behaved and or wanders off, then you can reward them with a treat and calm gentle praise. 

  Remember if we want calm gentle behaviour, our voice and actions need to promote it.

• Repeat these meetings regularly, gradually increasing the length of time involved, in line with how well it is going. Don’t rush to remove the barrier of the pen.

   Patience is key!

• If the puppy gets excited, that is ok. Where possible, sit at a distance from the pen that your cat is comfortable with.

• Be patient and give the puppy time to calm down. Be sure to not force interactions. Hopefully, your puppy will gradually calm down and lose interest. Watch out for this and reward with treats!