Hi Sarah! Welcome to the forums! Unfortunately I have no experience introducing cats to dogs. I hope someone here can give you good advice!
On the other hand, seeing how it has only been a week I wouldn't worry too much about her skittish nature...
My good friend Josie has cats and dogs that get along just great but if the dogs cross the line the cats put them in their place. It's quite funny to see them scare off her husky and her Chow Chow mix who are giants compared to them.
It might take awhile before she builds up the confidence to meet your dog on her own terms. I hardly think it's "cruel" if she chooses to stay upstairs and not come down.
Please post pictures of your Tilly on this forum when you find the time
Aw thanks April we've never had a cat before and i don't think she has it in her to tell him off and i hate to think shes upstairs alone with no company when she obviously likes it but i don't want to stress the dog out either.
This is the best photo i could get of Tilly i don't want to handle her too much while shes getting used to us.
Awwwww your resident "retard" looks like a gentle giant.
Tilly looks lovely and if she enjoys your company and follows you from room to room I would think she's well on her way to getting herself accustomed.
I'm also a first time cat owner! We adopted our 18 month old Simba on the 8th.
You'd be surprised what she has in her.
Give her time and lots of company too! Maybe she will follow you downstairs when she feels up to it. Right now it's good that she has the upstairs to feel safe in.
Thanks guys hey i actually have a dap diffuser i use leading upto bonfire night for the dog as he hates the fireworks.
I didn't give it a thought to use it again i'll get it out today
. Tilly is very pretty!! Just keep her in your room with all of her necessities for right now and keep the dog out of the room. Let the cat adjust to her new home for a week or so before introducing the dog to her. And just keep the dog on leash, or a long line, in case you need to correct the dog from chasing the cat. I taught my dogs right off the bat not to EVER chase the cats. It will just take time for Tilly to come around and hopefully your dog will just relax about having a cat around. That will help Tilly feel safe knowing you will intervene and control the dog and keep the dog at a safe distance. Good Luck