He is 3, neutered, and awesome. So gentle and sweet and loving. Rescued him, but he has a thing about cats. He has not tried to hurt one, yet, but he freezes and stares at them. He is so intent on them, he can't take his eyes off of them. They don't like him at all, when he is close they try to scratch him and they growl. We have 5 year old lab who they play and snuggle with, is there hope for him to be socialized with them, and how?? Thanks.
2006-11-05 02:50:15 · 4 answers · asked by Smilingcheek 4 in Pets ➔ Dogs
It is very possible for this to be done. But it will take patience and diligence on your part. First have a friend or family member help you. All introductions must be done in a controlled way. If you can find a kitty who is already socialized with dogs it will help. If you have a kitty who your dog needs to live with use her. Sit on the couch, with the kitty with you on a leash or harness. Have your helper bring the dog just into the room. Have lots of good things to treat both animals with, (be it toys, special food treats, in small quantities, or just lots of loving praise.) Let the animals see each other, but not close enough to get stressed and praise them for being in the same room together. If there is any negative reaction by your dog, tell him NO and redirect his attention to the pets, toys or food. Be patient and consistent, and above all, do not let them interact alone until you are sure they are safe. Very gradually, move the animals closer together until they are so used to each other they just don't care. This can take several months, don't push it, it may go faster, but don't expect it. Good Luck
2006-11-05 03:24:01 · answer #1 · answered by piper 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you are petting and holding him at the same time bring the cat near you and pet the cat. Slowly bring them towards each other and let them smell each other. They may not get along the first time, but the dog will realize that the cat is not a danger and not an enemy. The cat will realize this too!
2006-11-05 10:58:36 · answer #2 · answered by no.#1 Mom 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If he is 3 and not socialized to cats, you may never be able to get him to accept them. I have owned Boxers since 1988, and they are one of the breeds that doesn't seem to like cats naturally. They just get excited about any animal that moves fast - cats, squirrels, birds, etc. I had one that even went after a cat she was raised with out of the blue at 6 months old! That took weeks to get through to her that was unacceptable again. The breeder I get my Boxers from keeps cats in her kennel to help get her dogs & pups used to them. So, if you are wanting to suddenly get her to like cats at this late age, it will be quite a challenge! Be sure to keep some distance & a cage or other protection between him & any cat for BOTH of their safety, please, till you are very certain he is not likely to bite it - believe me, they move quickly!
2006-11-05 11:30:47 · answer #3 · answered by mustanglynnie 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can try but you need to socialize him with cats till he doesnt hate them, might take awhile and he's older now so it will be hard but it can be done, dont leave him alone with them till he doesnt want to kill them so much anymore. Like pet cats in front of him and scold him while he growls at cats not shortly after.The hardest part in training is to scold at the right time.
2006-11-05 10:55:42 · answer #4 · answered by Wretched 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋