Puddles and Winter Introductions

[vampiric_conure]

For those that missed it, I got a new cat, Puddles, a year old, who I'm Introducing to my 5-year-old Italian Greyhound, Winter. I've had Puddles for a grand total of 2.5 weeks. So far introductions are going great, though there's some barking over food. Dog and cat are fed in different rooms to keep the peace and so far so good. There is some minor chasing with Winter going after Puddles, which I discourage.

My question is: When do I take Winter off her leash? I'm slowly taking the leash off of me but keeping it on the dog to see how well she's reacting without me in her face 24/7. Every moment is supervised. So far everything has been peaceful, but as I stated before... there is still some chasing. Puddles even initiates play with the dog. Play swatting, with ears forward and tail up, is common. No tail twitching. If she doesn't like something, Puddles runs away.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can answer!

 

[Kris107]

You know your dog best, so I think it's up to you. Do you have good verbal command with Winter? Does she listen if you say something? With the leash on, have you been correcting Winter if she seems to be getting too rough/intense/etc? Does Puddles have, and know of good places to hide that the dog can't get to?

 

[vampiric_conure]

You know your dog best, so I think it's up to you. Do you have good verbal command with Winter? Does she listen if you say something? With the leash on, have you been correcting Winter if she seems to be getting too rough/intense/etc? Does Puddles have, and know of good places to hide that the dog can't get to?

Winter has decent verbal commands. Just chasing and litter box surfing I'm having problems with. Hrrrrmmm.... Maybe I'll keep working on those two commands for a while. My mom and sister are coming tomorrow to set up the new wall unit/TV stand. Puddles will have more spaces to hide when that's all set up .

Thanks!

 

[Kwik]

Hi there- typically it's a good idea to give a kitty a chance to establish territory as they do need to familiarize themselves with a new environment and gain confidence when they feel safe and settled- 2& a half weeks is pretty fast to let Winter loose while Puddles is exploring her forever home,I'd suggest giving her 30 days without interference from Winter.....

It's great Puddles is initiating play but getting chased can be stressful on a new cat and you wouldn't want her to start avoiding Winter- once she's more established in her territory she might not run anymore so that would not bd good news for Winter - take it slow. An Italian Greyhound( or pretty much any canine) is really no match for any cat that decides to face off - they should be best pals after awhile as long as you let Puddles move along at her own pace,give her space ,time and high praises for both Winter and Puddles when your all together and they are both relaxed in each other's space( ideally on the leash until Winter learns " sit" & " stay" undistracted )

I love the photos of them together,they are adorable