Member

Posts: 19
From:NY
Registered: Sep 2003

posted 10-25-2003 03:42 PM         

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My husband rescued a male chihuahua. He is at the vet now, but we will be bringing him home on Monday. Does anyone have any advice about introducing him to our 4 cats?

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Member

Posts: 473
From:sheridan, wy
Registered: Aug 2003

posted 10-25-2003 03:53 PM         

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I haven't tried this but I heard a good way is to leave the new animal in a carrier and let all the current residents come check out the newcomer. Once they get a chance to check him out and smell him you open the door and let the new animal venture out. This was for cats, but I think it sounds like a good way for dog-cat intros.

I was also going to suggest to bring a blanket or something the dog has been sleeping on home so the cats can smell it and get used to the smell. Since he is coming home monday that might not work.

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Posts: 61
From:usa
Registered: Oct 2003

posted 10-25-2003 03:57 PM         

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I would keep him in one room for a couple of days. Try to make it so the cats can see him and get his scent. Dont just bring him in the house and let him run free. That might stress your cats out pretty bad. If you notice that one of your cats are really interested in getting close to him, let em. I wouldnt let them alone together for a while because cats can be mean when they feel that they are in danger.
Good luck with your new addition

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~*T*~

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Member

Posts: 19
From:NY
Registered: Sep 2003

posted 10-25-2003 08:33 PM         

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Thanks for your advice, fleafly and beepbeep. I will definitely do this. I want everyone to be happy and as least stressed as possible!

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Posts: 473
From:sheridan, wy
Registered: Aug 2003

posted 10-28-2003 10:12 AM         

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How did the introductions go?

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Member

Posts: 19
From:NY
Registered: Sep 2003

posted 11-03-2003 03:44 PM         

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Introductions went well! Buddy, our male cat, continues to hate Rupert, the chi, but he is tolerating him. Aradia and Ellie, two of the female cats, are just giving him a wide berth. And the Fruitbat, our youngest female cat, spends much of her time following him around, and touching noses with him whenever they meet. Rupert seems rather disinterested in all the cats. He only wants to be with human people!

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