How do i make my cats get along with my dog?

Question

well I recently adopted a Jack Russel Tarrier and my problem is that i also have two cats who are each four years old... Now that i have the dog the poor cats are always hiding upstairs and it just breaks my heart to see them so scared... I have the choice of giving the puppy back to its original owner but she would never walk the puppy... Someone Just tell me how to have my cats get used to the dog!

Answer 1

I had the same problem, except for I have 3 cats. When I called the vet to ask her what to do (It was horrible, we couldn't get the cats out from underneith the couch and when we did they were hissing and spitting the whole time) she said that you have to teach the cats that you love the dog, and you have to teach the dog you love the cats. Basically you have to get the cats and the dog in the same room, talk with a very loving tone and pet the dog in front of the cats so they know the dog isn't a "bad guy". Show them love at the same time. It didn't fix the problem the very first try or anything, but within a couple of weeks they were best friends. Still are.  

Answer 2

You can't force them to get along and since it's a puppy, the JRT is probably pestering them as well. You need to give them space, separate them and give them all some alone time with you. Then slowly, over time, leave the doors open and the cats will come around when they are ready.

There's lots of stuff online on how to introduce cats & dogs. Try reading up. I had to do the same thing with my 4 cats and it took probably a good 2 weeks before I trusted them all with each other. But then again, my dog was a mellow adult who had no issues with cats so I had a little bit of an advantage vs. you and the puppy.

Answer 3

It is generally easier if the dog was there first. Cats are pretty independent you can't make them do much that they don't want to do. Maybe more time to adjust will help. Best of Luck.

Answer 4

well this kind of stuff takes time put them near each other but not close anoth to touch each other make them smell each other sent trie and play with them together  

Answer 5

u cant really they will eventually get used to each other im watchin my mums dog just now and my cat aint impressed hes hardly eating or sleeping because hes frightened best to get any animals as babies and bring them up togther so they just get along sorry not great advice hopefully they will get along soon

Answer 6

you have received some very good answers.  i do know that cats are very independent.  i hope you will consult a vet.  to help you and your pets to at least tolerate each other..