Some helpful info on introducing your kitty to his or her new home:

Bringing Your Shelter Cat Home:

Your new cat has most probably experienced a lot of stress and changes of environment, and will probably be nervous/unsettled by the time you bring him home. He is most likely used to the environment of a shelter kennel/garden, so it would be best to keep him confined in a small safe room for the first few days, especially if there are other cats/pets in the house. Usually 2 weeks is ample…slowly allowing him into the various rooms of the house to sniff and explore, all the while keeping the other pets separate so as not to increase the level of stress he may be experiencing.

Let your cat set the rules at first. Don’t be surprised if the cat hides under the bed for several days. As long as he or she has food, water, a litter box, a place to sleep, and a toy or two..some catnip..he will be okay. Chances are when you are not in the room, he will be coming out to eat, use the litter box, or to explore by sniffing his new environment.

Gradually increase your together time. Talk to your cat when you are in the safe room. You may want to sit in a chair and read a book. He’ll come around when he finally feels safe with you, but don’t rush it. Count your victories in small increments: the first time he peeks out at you from under the bed; the first time he plays with a wand toy with you; the first time he takes a treat you offer him. When he finally jumps up and settles in on your lap, you’ll know that he has settled and he realises he is home…your life long companion…

 

Be patient.. these things take time… set your kitty out for success by not adding too much pressure too soon.

 

Integrating Cats and Dogs:

When first introducing a cat into a dog-only household (or vise-versa), keep the following in mind:

* Always supervise the animals until you know how they will get along.

* Separate the cat and dog during mealtimes.

* Separate the animals physically when leaving your house. Make sure to provide each with fresh water, resting beds, toys and/or a litter box.

* Consider using a baby gate to allow the animals to sniff each other without coming into full contact.

* On introduction, make sure the cat has an escape route, or a highplace to jump to, whilst keeping the dog on a lead at first. Keep treats with you and distract the dog’s attention from the cat by rewarding him a treat for good behaviour ie: ignoring the cat.

* Remember not to punish the dog for barking or wanting to chase the cat- it’s his natural instinct and he’s possibly curious.

* Take puppies/dogs to obedience classes to learn basic cues such as “sit,” “stay” or “down.”

Just as with humans, friendships take time to develop; don’t be upset if your animals don’t become pals right away.

It takes time, dedication and patience.

Always consult a qualified behaviourist or ask your local vet for more info.

 Dog And Cat Relationships:

Relationships between cats and dogs are possible, depending on their personalities and their owners’ patience and understanding. And while the initial introductory period can be tricky, this unique relationship can be quite rewarding to both species.

Dog and Cat Behaviour:

By nature, dogs are predators and often chase things smaller than them—including cats. However, this doesn’t mean that dogs and cats are not able to live in harmony. As the two most common household pets, the way dogs and cats relate to each other have a lot to do with their temperament, and whether either have had any adverse reactions to members of different species in the past.

For example, a dog raising his paw to a cat may mean he wants to play, but a cat can take it as a sign of an attack, prompting the cat to swat her paw at the dog, sending her into a hissing fit. Likewise, a cat that tries to rub up against a dog may be acting friendly, but a dog can interpret that as a threat—especially if the cat is near his toys or food—and can cause the dog to growl or bark.

However, getting a puppy and a kitten at the same time and raising them together is an option: that way neither has previous fears of each other, as early socialisation occurred.