I am
often asked whether our cats get along with dogs, and being a firm believer
that a picture speaks a thousand words I decided to add a cat and dog page
to my website. The other request I often have is how to introduce a new
kitten to the resident household companions. Regardless of whether you
have other pets the kitten will need time to investigate the new smells
etc of your home in peace. I think it best to confine the kitten to a room
when not supervised, and especially after meals. An entire house is too
large an area for a new kitten with a sudden toilet urge to negotiate.
Our cats are raised with dogs and often suckle from our Boston's who oblige
with pleasure and even produce milk. They invariably form close relationships
with their family dogs. When bringing a new animal member into your
household, it is essential that you make an extra effort to make a big
fuss of your resident pets! This will stop any jealousy in the future.
I usually suggest that kittens are given a safe space from which to view
and sum up the dog and or existing cat family. Even the carry cage is a
good start, a collapsible crate if you can borrow one is even better. Once
the introductions are over and the dog has settled or is outside the kitten
can be allowed out to watch through the door or window. You will get a
feeling that it is time to allow fur to fur contact, a quiet sniff while
the dog is sleeping is a good start. NEVER allow your dog to chase any
cat, a chase is a prelude to a kill, and what starts as a game can end
in tears. Devons are fearless when it comes to food, so if your dog is
zealous about his/her dinner, keep the kitten away at meal times. Once
your kitten discovers the eternal warmth that radiates from their dog they
will normally start the everlasting hottie routine, and the dogs peaceful
nights will become a thing of the past!
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