How To Introduce a Dog to a Cat

What’s better than having just one pet? If you’re a dog family, perhaps it’s bringing home a cute little kitty. Works the other way around, too. Here’s how to introduce a dog to a cat.

First, get towels, a tall pet gate, treats and toys for both of them, as well as someone to help. Keep them apart for now, while dividing your place into a “cat area” and a “dog area,” separated by a sturdy door. Then, start a scent exchange with towels and switch them daily, so your cat sleeps on the towel the dog used the previous day, and vice versa.

Next, let them hear each other with the door opened. Cover the gate with a towel, so your pets can’t see through it. Move it a little to the side, and keep doing so until you remove it completely.