How can I desensitize my dog to a cat? Here’s the Answer

Body language of dogs and cats

When introducing your dog to a cat, pay attention to the body language of both animals. If the cat’s ears are pinned back or his tail is swishing back and forth, this is a good indicator that he is displeased. You particularly want to be aware of dog body language that could be potential warning signs. If your dog has a strong prey drive (the inclination to seek out, chase and potentially capture animals seen as prey — usually smaller animals such as cats or rabbits), she might become very focused on the cat. She’ll stiffen, stare, and may start barking or whining. If you see these signs, do not let her near the cat. Ideally, her body language will be loose and relaxed around the cat. It’s OK if she pays attention to the cat, but you don’t want to see her fixated on him.

In addition, a dog’s interaction with a cat can change depending on the environment. Just because your dog is OK with the cat inside the house doesn’t mean she’ll exhibit that same behavior outdoors. She might fixate on the cat and start stalking him when they are outside together. So, be aware of her body language around the cat in each new situation, until you know how she is going to respond toward him.

Methods for introducing a dog and a cat

There are many different ways to introduce a dog to a cat. If the first method of introduction you try doesn’t work or you don’t feel comfortable with it, try a different option. Even if the dog has had experience with cats and the cat has lived with a dog before, proceed cautiously during the introduction. It’s best to have two people present — one to intervene with each animal, if necessary. If you have more than one dog, introduce each dog separately to the cat.

Dogs communicate with their eyes, ears, tail, and hackles. They communicate audibly as well with barking, growls, whining, and yawning. If you notice your dog is super fixated on your cat, their hackles are raised and their tail is down, note this as your dog negatively responding to the cat’s presence. Positive dog body language includes a loose-wagging and spiked tail, a forward posture, and a submissive grin. A submissive grin paired with a loose, wiggly posture is code for “Nice to meet you!” This is a sign that things are on the ups.

If you’re noticing signs that your two animals are not getting along (especially after attempted desensitization and face-to-face sessions), you should consult a professional. No shame in hiring a handler to help make your pets feel more comfortable and to relieve your own pet parent anxieties. Training sessions can go a long way!

Repetition is crucial here. Ultimately, we want your dog to get to a place where they are practically unphased by the cat. Allot multiple times throughout the day and week to desensitize. Allow for a handful of face-to-face sessions. Keep this on repeat until you’re seeing noticeable changes in the behavior of both your cat and your dog.

Once one pet is desensitized to the other (best if it’s a mutual desensitization) and you have a handle on your dog’s body language, you can begin face-to-face sessions. These sessions can be a bit more fast-paced, and they can help to set boundaries for your pets. Better if there are two people involved so you have control over both animals if the situation goes haywire.

Using positive reinforcement is a great way to teach your dog the appropriate way to act around a cat. Make sure that you’re not just reprimanding your dog for doing wrong. Give your pup a reward (either a treat or verbal praise) for acting calmly around the cat and being able to obey basic commands while diverting their interest. If you are constantly punishing your dog while the cat is in their presence, it could have an adverse effect.

Dog and Cat Socialization: Training for Hyper-Excited Dogs

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