Whether for the first, second, or third time, bringing a new kitten home to a household with a resident dog is always an unpredictable experience. After all, you never know how your pooch will get on with the addition of a younger sibling—and one of a different species! While you may not need to invest in dog training to assimilate your dog and kitten, it can be a cause for stress if not handled properly. That being said, there’s always more than one way to ensure that your fur-family get along. Here’s how you can prepare for your kitten’s homecoming:

1. Prepare your dog in advance

Whether or not your dog already has existing feline siblings, they won’t always take well to a new pet encroaching on their territory. Let your dog know you’re ready to dedicate the same amount of time to them as you did prior to the addition of a new family member by giving them loads of attention when your kitten arrives. This can be challenging, as new furry family members are cute and exciting, but blocking out some “me and you” time with your resident dog is a great idea.

2. Prepare a separate space for your new kitten

To protect your kitten from unpredictable circumstances, dedicate a space in your home that is separate from your existing pets. Here, provide it with everything it needs—from a litter box, bed, food and water bowls, and toys. This way, your kitten can get to know you without the added pressure of having to meet its new siblings all at once. Take things slowly, as they are likely to be overwhelmed by the world of new scents, sounds, sights, people, places, and things.

3. Familiarize your pets with each other’s scents

Before allowing them to meet face to face, it’s important that both your dog and kitten familiarize themselves with each other’s scents. You can achieve this by swapping their blankets out every night or introducing each animal to one another’s spaces individually. You can also feed them simultaneously, separated by a screen or on the other side of a door, allowing them to safely catch a whiff of the other.

Ensure that your dog or kitten doesn’t leave any droppings in both respective spaces and refrain from allowing them to eat each other’s kibble.

4. Introducing them for the first time

When meeting for the first time, keep your pooch on a leash and your kitten inside their crate. As much as they may demonstrate a fondness for one another, you can never be too careful! Always be prepared to remove your dog should they indicate signs of stress, aggression, or over-excitement. Repeat this activity until you’re confident both animals can co-exist without the risk of one harming the other.

Remember to reward each pet for good behaviour with treats or praise. Regardless of how assimilated your pets may seem in the first month of your kitten’s homecoming, it’s important that you don’t leave them unattended for at least 4 to 6 weeks.

As time passes, you can let your kitten out of its crate, never forcing them out if they demonstrate reluctance.

Conclusion

A dog that takes well to a new kitten is often a dream but doesn’t always occur naturally. More often than not, you’ll have to take extra precautions when introducing your faithful friend to a new sibling. With patience and effort, you can instill a friendship to last a lifetime in just a few weeks!

At the Paw Resort and Wellness Centre, we consider ourselves as more than just a boarding kennel. We provide cat grooming and dog grooming services in Brandon, MB, as well as facilitated playdates that can enhance the relationship between your pets! Ready to hit the Paw Spaw? Contact us today to set up an appointment and you’ll see- your pet’s comfort is our priority!