The Pet Owners Corner

June 23, 2026

 

Dear Cattalker: We have two older cats we love dearly. They sleep with my husband and me every night. Our son is of the age he would love a dog to be his buddy and sleep with him. Can cats and dogs actually get along OK??   Sally Z

Dear Sally: Yes, cats and dogs can get along, and even become best buddies. There are some things that need to be planned ahead, however. If you are getting your dog or puppy from a breeder, please ask about the breed’s tendencies in dealing with cats. Breeds in the sighthound varieties are not usually trustworthy around cats, because they see small, quick moving things as prey ¾ That is their nature. They can be taught to leave your house cats alone, but they will always chase and possibly harm outside cats they do not know. I own a sighthound and she is fine with our adult cats, but I would never trust her alone with them if we are not home, nor would I ever trust her with kittens.

If you are getting your new family member from a shelter, they will most likely have “cat-tested” the dog. They will be able to tell you if the dog chases the cats or has hunting instincts toward them.

Once you have decided which dog you will add to your family, take the introductions slow and easy. Keep them separate at first, and introduce with the dog on a leash so you can immediately control any jumping at the cats. Since your cats sleep with you, perhaps your bedroom can be their safe place. There are gates that keep dogs out but have a little cat door at the bottom. Such a gate on your bedroom will allow the cats to go in and out, but not the dog. You may only need the gate for a short while.

Be sure that the cats can get to their litter box and food/water without the dog bothering them. Again, it may only take a short time for good harmony to be in your home.

Some good research and proper planning will assure the dog and the cats of a smooth introduction.

Pet Owners Corner is designed to answer common questions that pet owners may have. Answers will be simple and straight forward. No questions are too silly to ask; if you have that question, others probably do as well. No medical advice will be given because diagnosing and treating is not possible without a proper veterinary examination.

You may send your questions to: Cattalker2024@gmail.com