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Looks as if a puppy is joining the family. Advice please

(34 Posts)
MayBee70 Thu 15-Jun-23 14:33:06

I’ve always had dogs and cats in the past so I can’t see it being a problem as long as the cats have a means of escaping from the puppy. If it was me I’d get a dap diffuser for the cats in case they get stressed by the new arrival. Given the reason for your daughter wanting a dog ( which is a good idea) you need to do some research into separation anxiety. The puppy must learn to be alone at times.

Doodle Thu 15-Jun-23 14:29:41

DGS has elderly but unfriendly cat.
A couple of years ago he had a new puppy. Puppy interested in cat but cat kept hitting its nose so it kept its distance and never chased it. Roll on another 2 years DGS gets another puppy. He too gets the same treatment as the first. Cat rules.
They now eat their meals together. 3 bowls on the floor dogs either side cat in the middle then they retire to the sofa for their nap. One dog each end and the cat curled up in the middle.
I would suggest you make sure your cats can eat in peace and have some high places to go where they can escape from an energetic puppy if needed.

Georgesgran Thu 15-Jun-23 14:24:18

When I read Theexwife comments, I though them a bit negative.

But, of course, she is completely right. It’s happened to both my SinL and friend. Their single sons got dogs, but then one moved out snf rented a ‘no pets’ flat and left his dog with his parents - they weren't happy about it and my friend’s son, who is now a home owner, but out at work, relies on his Mum having his dog at her house 5 days a week.

A dog lover myself, I’m happy to have DD2’s little dog here when they are on holiday, but wouldn’t want him full-time.

When we had dogs and cats, the pecking order was soon decided with the cats at the top.

Visgir1 Thu 15-Jun-23 14:10:20

As a small puppy, it will be in a crate to sleep etc. It will feel safe in the Crate as well.
The cats will approach the small puppy on their own terms, puppy will get used to the cats.
Worked with both our established cats, when my DD had her new Puppy. That's what she was advised, to do. They all got on well, he was a bit scared of my Ginger Girl though!

Won't be long before the new puppy is part of the family, and as you know the Cats will probably be in charge.

3dognight Thu 15-Jun-23 14:09:12

As others have said, the cats will most probably be in charge. It may be wise not to get a pup with a high prey drive, as although the cats may be in charge indoors once outdoors they may find the tables turned.

That’s what I found out when I brought pointer pups into a two cat household.

If she ran outside it appeared to them that she was fair game and got chased.
It took a long time for them learn ‘leave that cat’.

The other cat , a much more timid one, left home to live with the lady next door.

Theexwife Thu 15-Jun-23 13:54:44

I think you should be prepared that when she moves out she may not be able to take the dog with her, it would depend on the property she goes into and her work schedule.

If this happens it will probably be fine as you will love the dog by then.

Puppies and cats together are a joy to watch, the cats are in charge.

Joseann Thu 15-Jun-23 13:35:41

Cat, pup, not sure who's in charge, but probably your cats will put the puppy in its place.
We've always had both, young and old together.

I hope your daughter enjoys her new friend.

Casdon Thu 15-Jun-23 13:32:34

Yes, I had a puppy (spaniel) when my brother and sister cats were 9. The male cat whopped the puppy on the nose within 5 minutes, established himself as the boss and so it remained, they became firm friends. The puppy tried to dominate my more timid female cat and he occasionally half heartedly chased her if she was in the place he wanted to be, but it was never a problem as she just climbed out of his way and taunted him from afar. The cars were much more likely to have spats with each other than the dog.

Lizbethann55 Thu 15-Jun-23 13:24:56

My DD has had a torrid year, resulting in a divorce and loss of her home. At 40 she finds herself divorced, childless ( miscarriage and failed IVF) and living back at home in her childhood bedroom. She has decided she would love a puppy. DH and I think it will be good for her and she knows it will be entirely her responsibility and she has done a great detail of research and given it a lot of thought. The only problem is that we have two middle aged/ elderly cats. Does anyone have any experience of bringing a puppy into a cats home and can you offer any advice? We have always had cats but have never had a dog before. Thank you.