Introducing Your Dog to a New Cat at Home

A Calm, Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Peaceful Multi-Pet Household

Welcoming a new cat into a home with an existing dog is a big decision — and the way you introduce them matters. With the right plan, most dogs can learn to coexist happily and respectfully with a feline housemate. Some even go on to form close bonds.

At Jordan Dog Training, we’ve helped many Australian families navigate this transition. Whether your dog is playful, calm, confident, or just unsure about the change, this guide will help you set them up for success — and reduce stress for everyone involved.

Understanding the Dog–Cat Dynamic

Dogs and cats communicate in completely different ways. What looks friendly to a dog — like wagging their tail or trotting over to say hello — may feel threatening to a cat. On the other hand, a cat’s sudden movement, stillness, or quiet stares can confuse or overstimulate a dog.

Some dogs may feel unsure or overly curious, especially if they haven’t spent time around cats before. Others may have strong chase instincts or difficulty self-regulating in new situations. In all of these cases, calm structure and positive reinforcement will help.

A smooth introduction doesn’t just prevent early tension — it lays the foundation for a respectful, low-stress relationship going forward.

Before You Begin

Set Up a Safe Space for Your Cat

Choose a quiet room that your dog can’t access. This space should include:

• A litter tray (placed away from food and water)
• Scratching surfaces and toys
• A cat bed or soft hideaway
• Vertical spaces like cat trees, shelves, or windowsills

This area will help your cat settle and build confidence before they start exploring the rest of the house.

Prepare Your Dog

Before your dog meets the cat, brush up on some basic calm behaviours that will help you guide them:

• “Look at me” — to redirect their attention
• “Leave it” — to disengage from fixating
• “Place” or “on your mat” — to settle in a controlled, relaxed way

Short daily training sessions can make a big difference. You can follow our guide to Impulse Control for Dogs or speak to one of our accredited trainers for one-on-one support.

If your dog tends to be shy or fearful, you may also want to refer to our blog on Helping Your Anxious Dog Feel Safe for extra tools and insights.

Step-by-Step Introduction Plan

1. Start with Scent

Before any visual contact, get your dog used to the cat’s scent.

• Swap bedding or toys between the two animals
• Rub a soft cloth on your cat’s face and leave it near your dog’s bed
• Allow your dog to sniff around the cat’s closed room

Pair this exposure with treats or calm praise to build positive associations. For more, see our blog on How Dogs Communicate Through Scent.

2. Controlled Visual Introductions

Once your dog is showing calm interest in the cat’s scent, you can begin short visual introductions.

• Use a baby gate, screen door, crate, or lead to keep both pets safe
• Allow your cat freedom to move and observe
• Keep sessions short — just a few minutes at first
• Reward your dog for calm glances, disengaging, or staying settled

Behavioural insight:

Research in animal behaviour shows that animals form strong associations during high-stress events. That means a rushed or chaotic introduction can have lasting effects. Taking it slowly protects both pets from unnecessary fear or confusion.

3. Supervised Shared Space

Once your dog can remain calm during short visual introductions, you can begin brief shared-space sessions.

• Keep your dog on lead or behind a baby gate
• Allow your cat full access to perches or escape routes
• Provide enrichment (like a chew or lick mat) to help your dog stay settled
• Monitor closely, and end on a positive note

Avoid any forced interaction. The goal is quiet co-existence — not play or direct engagement.

Managing the Household Environment

Enrichment for Calm Behaviour

Dogs that are physically and mentally fulfilled are far more likely to cope well with new situations. Consider providing:

• Long-lasting natural chews
• Snuffle mats or scent work activities
• Puzzle toys or frozen lick mats
• Walks that allow for sniffing and decompression

You can find a range of hand-picked enrichment tools in our online store.

Australian research highlights the importance of daily enrichment in reducing behavioural issues and promoting overall wellbeing — especially when dogs are adapting to change.

What About Children?

If you have young children in the home, involve them in setting the tone. Teach kids not to chase, grab, or overwhelm either pet — especially during the early stages. Help them understand that quiet, calm behaviour helps your dog and cat feel safe too.

Signs Things Are Going Well

You’re on the right track if:

• Your dog glances at the cat, then looks away or relaxes
• The cat moves freely and confidently through shared areas
• Both pets eat, rest, and play in the same household without constant supervision

Some dogs and cats will become playmates. Others will keep their distance but live peacefully. Both outcomes are valid and successful.

What If There’s a Setback?

If your dog:

• Stares intensely at the cat
• Ignores your cues to disengage
• Chases, barks, or becomes fixated

Or if your cat:

• Hides constantly
• Stops eating or using the litter box
• Shows signs of stress like hissing, swiping, or vocalising

Pause the introduction and go back a step. Reinforce calm behaviour and make things easier for both pets. Don’t rush — the slower you go, the more solid the foundation.

And if you’re unsure, speak to your vet or contact us to chat with one of our accredited trainers. Your vet can help rule out any underlying health concerns that may be influencing your dog’s behaviour.

Realistic Timeframes

Some dogs adjust to a new cat in just a few days. Others take several weeks or longer — especially if the dog is young, excitable, or hasn’t lived with other animals before.

The key is to go at the pace of the least confident animal, not the fastest.

More Resources

For extra reading, we recommend:

• Introducing a New Dog to Your Existing Dog
• Helping Your Dog Settle in a New Environment
• Understanding Dog Body Language
• Puppy School Classes Across Australia

You’ve Got This

Introducing your dog to a new cat is a process — but it’s one that can be calm, positive, and rewarding for everyone. Whether they become best mates or simply tolerate each other, the goal is mutual respect and a safe, peaceful household.

And remember, you’re not alone. At Jordan Dog Training, we’re always here to support you — with kind, practical advice tailored to your pets and your life.

Give your amazing dog a pat from us

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended as general guidance and is based on our experience as dog trainers and behaviourists. It is not veterinary advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, wellbeing, or behaviour, we always recommend speaking with your vet to ensure the best care for your dog.