Socializing my new pet with other animals...

Question

I just rescued a little cat, i already have two pets (one cat, one dog). How do i socialize them so they can get along???

Answer 1

so start the first week of it being in the house without you there keep it in a seperate room. when you are there let it out and watch it just in case. after a while theyll start getting used to each other if not being friends with each other in the next month or so

Answer 2

The best thing is to let them take their time. The only thing rushing them does is frustrate you. In order to help them get used to each other while keeping them seperate when you're not around, is to take a towel or blanket that the kitten sleeps with and put it near your other animals. It'll help them get used to the new cat.

Answer 3

If your dog is all ready used to cats then the harder part is getting this new little cat used to your dog.  The best way I've found to socialize feral and stray cats with our dogs is by using a see through baby gate, to isolate the newbie in an out of the way room of the house.

Around here we use the utility room as it's off our living room area and with the gate across the newbie can actually see and hear all the activities that go on in the house.  With the gate up the cat can adjust to things in it's own time, and your resident cat can actually jump the gate and get to know the newbie when they are ready.  If the newbie doesn't hiss at the dog when your holding it, and seems comfortable with the dog then you may be able to speed the introductions up a little by setting with the new cat on the sofa or floor with the dog near by.

A lot depends on the new cat.  Don't force the dog on it though.  If it hisses and gets all upset just let the two meet and get used to each other on their own terms and I promise they can become the best of friends.  Just like your other cat has.

Good Luck!

Answer 4

They'll usually get used to each other on their own. Don't force them try and get along tho - this can cause them to resent each other.

My animals (Maltipoo and shelter cat) took in my kitten really well. I just allowed the kitten to roam the house while I was at home, but when I was at work I locked the kitten in my bedroom with a small litter box and food and water so she wouldn't get beat up any. That allowed her to get used to my bedroom (Where all the animals sleep) and get used to the smells of the other animals and vice versa.

Good luck!