Expert: Kate Tilmouth - 1/27/2009

Question
Hi,
I have a female lab at home. She is about 4 years old and through her record, she's quite bad with cats. Now I have to bring a pregnant cat home and I have no idea how to deal with the situation. How can I make my dog ok with this cat? Will it be better if I seperate them? Is it easier for my dog to get to know a kitten?
and one more thing, the cat's pretty much stray but I can carry her and touch her. I'm afraid that she will run away? Will that happen?

Answer
Hi
the best thing i can do is to answer your questions by pointing you in the direction of my web site which covers many areas of cat behaviours etc that may help you with your new arrival.

First let me ask you to follow the introduction procedure described here
http://www.our-happy-cat.com/introducing-cats.html

even though it is about cats it works just as well with dogs too.
Take the whole thing slowly and calmly and over a period of at least a week. this will give both animals time to settle down and become more confident with each other.

As for your stray running away well yes it is possible, but if you keep her in and give her lots of attention, somewhere warm and comfortable to sleep and food. there is no reason why she will not stay. Again read my pages about bonding with your cat, cat care and cat toys etc for a over all picture of a cat and owners relationship.

Best wishes Kate
http://www.our-happy-cat.com