Expert: Dear Tabbi - 9/9/2008

Question
My husband and I adopted this adorable little black female kitten and raised her as our only beloved pet for about 7 months. We eventually moved to a place where we could have dogs. Being animal lovers, we imagined a house full of dogs and cats.
So we also took on two German shepherd puppies, a brother and a sister.
Unfortunately in the move, not all the animals ended up in our new home in the beginning. At first, all the animals stayed for a week stint at my parent's house where they were kept separated. Peace reigned. Then one early morning, I had just brought the puppies in from outside and our cat was wandering around the house. Lo and behold, a chase pursued and the cat was cornered a few times, terrified but unscathed.
It turned out the female puppy was a real rabble-rouser and we decided that she would do better in a household where she could have undivided attention. So she was adopted out.
Considering that the cat was chased, we decided not to bring the cat into our new house until we were settled in with the dog.
We kept her in a separate bedroom, and would only open the door when we could fully supervise the animal's interactions. Then when the dog slept in his crate at night, we would let her out to wander the house. Our puppy still had the inclination to chase her and would until she either ran under furniture or we grabbed him. He was scolded and told to, "leave her."
As the weeks have progressed, he is still very interested in her but won't approach or chase, especially since we scold him immediately if we see the slightest aggression.
Then a very interesting thing started to unfold. The cat has gotten brave enough to charge out of her hiding place at the dog when he passes by, which scares the #$%@ out of him. Then they stare at each other shocked for a split second. I always get immediately up and stand in front of the dog warding off a chase scene.
I'm glad to see the cat take some initiative for her space. But I think this behavior of hers is just provoking a dangerous situation? Should I allow this to continue in hopes they reach an understanding, or should I scold her for her demonstrative behavior?   

Unsure and weary of a divided house, Linds

Answer
Lindsay,

The cat is playing with the dog.

It is difficult because the dog may take the cat's actions for aggressiveness and retaliate. I would supervise when they are together and make sure the dog doesn't chase the cat. Being on a leash when they are together will help control the dog.

Make sure the cat has high places where she can go to get away from the dog if she feels she needs to. Keep the cat's claws trimmed also. Feed both treats together so they associate each other with something pleasant. Rub one towel on each animal so they recognize the scent of the other, and exchange sleeping blanket, etc. for the same reason.

It would be good to get another kitty about your cat's age and temperment for her to play kitty games with and for companionship. Cats and dogs can't really 'play' and wrestle together, they are more walking and snuggle companions.

The cat and dog will get along OK but it will take training, time and patience. Don't leave the cat alone with the dog until you are SURE there will not be any problems. Too many people have come home to find a dead cat from a dog they thought they could 'trust'.

Tabbi