I don't want to upset the harmony that exists in my home.
2007-09-21 04:08:50 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Cats
Thanks everyone, your answers are really helpful.
2007-09-21 04:41:55 · update #1
Getting a dog will absolutely upset the harmony in your home. The cats will get used to it if you get a quiet dog who won't bother them too much. Try to get an adult dog that has been "tested" around cats. If your cats are older, they probably won't like it very much. Cats hate change. I also nooticed that you like in NYC, like I do. Think about the space issues and the financial responsibility of having 3 pets in terms of food and medical care. Also, going away is more difficult and expensive with a dog. Good luck with your babies!
2007-09-21 04:27:27 · answer #1 · answered by wayfarstar 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'd introduce a puppy that is a "quiet" breed. Not the kind to jump and run and play constantly ... otherwise, the cats will resent his/her presence. The cats are already used to the way things are, and most cats get upset with a change in routine. I've found having a quiet breed will help them accept the puppy quicker.
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1016 this site has professional tips on introducing a dog into the mix.
I hope all goes well!!
2007-09-21 11:16:28 · answer #2 · answered by Serena 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If kittens are brought up with dogs around I think it would be ok. I do not think at this point it is a good idea. Wish I could find it but there was a post here within the last 2 weeks about someone who brought a dog in the house and now the cat just hides and stays there excedpt to eat. I love all animals and would love to say this was ok but I don't believe it to be the case
2007-09-21 11:29:30 · answer #3 · answered by Ken 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
well i would try and get a puppy or a dog that is known to be good with cats from the pound. if you do get one make sure you create a "safe zone" for the cat. maybe a bedroom or somethings else. leave the litter and food in there and check in on them every so often. then allow them to sniff each other between the door. after awhile put the puppy on a leash or in a cage/dog carrier and let the cats smell it that way. dont force them to get along. once the hissing and spitting stops you can let them out together but dont let the dog attack the cat even if they are playing if the cat feels scared. sooner or later they will get along...............its a live and learn thing
good luck
2007-09-21 12:23:32 · answer #4 · answered by first time mommy 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have got 2 cats and when I got a puppy they soon showed the dog who was in charge! Just make sure the dog know straightaway not to touch the cats (using the command "leave it" and praising him when he moves away from the cats) and you should be fine. It might be a bit harder if you get a terrier or greyhound as they are sometimes more likely to go for cats than other breeds
2007-09-21 11:18:52 · answer #5 · answered by BusyBee 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The cats will probably not like it. In my experience, cats will tolerate some "nuisance," like a dog, but do not enjoy noisy, active creatures. Generally, though, this is the cats' opinion on many things, people and events in your home. Because cats tend to be finicky and a little reclusive, it should not present a problem any more than another person visiting the house. I would get a dog and let the cats learn to adjust. I would also protect the cats by allowing an escape route and some "personal" space for them. They might even enjoy watching the dog, as long as he/she is not chasing them around too much! (Remember Garfield and his superiority complex with Odie?) One other thing- I know the popular thing now is to view pets as little people or as kids, but really they are creatures for you to care for and enjoy. God made them for us. We should respect them and treat them well, but ultimately, you are in charge in your home. So do what you prefer and let the animals follow you as leader (like the Dog Whisperer).
2007-09-21 11:17:45 · answer #6 · answered by Lou 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ours get along famously. One chocolate lab and two cats. I have tons of pictures of them laying next to each other. Bonus: you get a dog out of the idea.
2007-09-21 11:34:53 · answer #7 · answered by busterp 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes, i think if you introduce a puppy, he or she will get along ok... the pup will likely be scared of the cats at first, anyway.
and the cats? they will put him in his place, and probably accept him in a couple weeks... i'm sure the cats will also avoid the puppy, but be curious at the same time.
take care.
2007-09-21 11:27:55 · answer #8 · answered by letterstoheather 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes but make it a puppy...that way they can train him.
2007-09-21 11:11:48 · answer #9 · answered by Rhonda & Cats 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Probably not
2007-09-21 11:13:55 · answer #10 · answered by skirickfiftyone 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋