Wednesday, September 13, 2006

'Audition' dog to see if he gets along with cat (some do!)

PEOPLE adopting a dog often ask "Is he good with cats?" Despite the images we see in cartoons, dogs and cats aren't necessarily natural enemies.

Some dogs get along with cats, some don't. The best indicator is history; in other words, whether a dog has successfully lived with a cat in the past. That information isn't always available, however, so the next best option is to "audition" the dog with a cat.

When you conduct the audition, keep the dog on a leash so he won't flat-out chase the cat. Watch how the dog reacts.

Good signs include cautious interest, tail wagging and respect -- backing off if the cat sends defensive signals. Bad signs include instant attempts to chase the cat, extreme pulling on the leash, whining, barking or general agitation.

If a dog exhibits overt aggression -- lunging, snarling and growling -- he's clearly not a good candidate to live with a cat.

If a dog has a strong prey drive, his chances of getting along with a cat are iffy. Predatory types -- dogs who tend to chase squirrels and birds, for example -- are much more stressful for cats. They have to be constantly managed and supervised in the presence of a cat, because their instinct is to chase anything small and furry.

Some dogs can be trained to redirect their predatory drive, but it's a difficult process. Try to give your dog an outlet for his chase behavior by regular exercise with a ball or Frisbee.

A dog who is a gentle, relaxed, friendly, non-predatory type is the best prospect for developing a successful relationship with a cat. The success of the relationship will also depend on the temperament of your cat. Relaxed, laid-back cats and kittens are most likely to accept a dog. They're also less apt to flee and trigger chasing. Shy, skittish and declawed cats are not as likely to live happily with a canine companion.

Here are some pointers to help smooth the introduction of a dog and resident cat:

Have a "safe room" and high places where the cat can get away from the dog. It's important for the cat to have a place where she can retreat from the dog to regroup and relax. Never force the cat to get near the dog by holding her, caging her or otherwise restricting her desire to escape.

Start introductions with the dog on a leash. Use your best judgment to decide when the dog and cat can begin supervised interaction with the dog off leash.

If the dog is being friendly or cautious, don't intervene except to praise and reward the dog for his good behavior.

It's important to be patient and to encourage appropriate interactions. Always praise friendly behavior profusely. And remember, if you're relaxed the dog and cat will be more at ease.

Interrupt intense chasing and try to redirect the dog's attention to another activity. You may have to manage the dog on leash for a while, until you have worked out a routine or divided up the house.

It may take eight to 10 weeks for the dog and cat to adjust to each other. Remember to keep them separated when you're not at home.

Finally, give the cat plenty of extra attention, so she doesn't associate the dog's arrival with less affection for her.


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