How to Introduce Your New Cat to Your Dog — The FellowKitty Way
“Because every paw deserves peace, not panic.”
At FellowKitty, we’ve rescued cats and kittens from every kind of situation imaginable — street corners, drainage pipes, markets, temples, and abandoned buildings. Many of these brave little survivors go on to find their forever homes with loving families... and sometimes, those families already have a dog waiting behind the door.
Now, we love both cats and dogs equally — they each bring their own magic. But when introducing a rescued cat or kitten to your resident dog, especially one who may have never lived indoors or shared space with other animals, patience is your greatest gift.
Here’s how to help your new feline friend and loyal canine companion begin their journey toward friendship, one tail wag and cautious sniff at a time.
Step 1: Prepare a Calm, Safe Space
When your new cat arrives, don’t introduce them to your dog right away. Start by giving your cat a quiet, separate room where they can decompress and get used to their surroundings. This space should include:
A cozy bed
Food and water bowls
A litter tray
Hiding spots (cardboard boxes work wonderfully!)
Think of this as their “soft landing.” For many rescued cats, this might be the first time they feel safe. Don’t rush this step — give them time to settle in.
Step 2: Let Them Smell Each Other – Without Seeing
Your dog probably already knows “something’s up.” They’ll sniff the door, pace around, and maybe bark. That’s okay. It’s curiosity, not aggression.
To start the introduction gently:
Swap bedding or toys between your dog and your cat so they get used to each other’s scent.
Let your dog smell under the cat’s door. Keep your tone calm and positive.
Reward your dog with praise or treats for calm behavior around the cat’s space.
This slow scent exchange helps create familiarity before face-to-face contact.
Step 3: Controlled Visual Introduction
Once your cat feels confident in their space (this could take days or weeks), you can let them see each other — but with a barrier.
Use a baby gate, screen door, or even let them peek through a slightly open door.
Keep the sessions short and calm.
Praise both animals, but especially your dog for staying relaxed.
If either pet becomes fearful or overexcited, pause and try again later. At FellowKitty, we always say: “A step back isn’t failure — it’s grace.”
Step 4: Supervised Face-to-Face Meetings
When you feel ready, bring your dog into the room on a leash while your cat is free to move, perch, or observe.
Keep your dog in a calm sit or lie down.
Never force your cat to approach.
Let them set the pace.
These early meetings should be brief and positive. End the session before either pet becomes overwhelmed.
Step 5: Celebrate Small Victories
A shared nap in the same room? A quiet sniff? No hissing or barking? These are wins!
Continue to monitor interactions and give both pets individual attention. Some dogs and cats become inseparable best friends. Others maintain mutual respect and personal space. Both outcomes are perfectly okay.
FellowKitty Wisdom: You’re Not Just Creating a Friendship — You’re Healing
Many of our rescued cats have lived through fear, abandonment, or trauma. Their world has been unpredictable — until now. Your home is not just shelter. It’s sanctuary. When you take the time to build a safe, loving relationship between your cat and dog, you’re showing them what real love looks like.
That’s the heart of FellowKitty: kindness, patience, and second chances.
Ready to Adopt or Help?
Want to bring a rescued kitten into your dog-loving family? Or just support our mission? Visit www.fellowkitty.com to learn more, donate, or get involved.
Let’s help every paw feel at peace — no matter who’s wagging the tail.