Introducing a small dog into a two cat household.?

[tamgirl1983]

I have a two cat dominate household, it's a two bedroom duplex approx. 900 sq ft. My cats are three years old and have been together since about 9wks of age. They are very spoiled and loved, and show my boyfriend and I affection constantly. I have recently been thinking about adopting a small dog from a rescue, and I want to know how I can introduce the dog into my home without stressing out my cat kids too badly. I have raised both a Chihuahua and Yorkie mix so I am familiar with taking care of small dogs. My Chihuahua passed at age 12 of cancer just last month, she and the Yorkie were living with my Mother. I know how to potty train them, groom, feed and entertain them, and have had cats for my entire life, but I have never introduced a dog to cats that stay indoors. All three animals would be indoors exclusively, except for when they are walked or when the dog wants out to potty. I am thinking I will try to use a potty pad if I end up adopting another chihuahua, because my cats (who also walk on cat leashes) will want to go outside almost every time the dog does. I don't mind adopting an older dog, so that is not an issue. Also, I will be converting my 2nd bedroom into a play room and getting some baby gates for the cat litter-box area so they can be away from the dog, and the dog wouldn't have access to their litter. Any tips or suggestions? Any thoughts?
To the first answer, I just guessed about how big my duplex is so it's an estimate and is probably bigger, but I am not sure. It is 2 full beds and 2 full baths, and I have been looking for a home for rent closer to my mom as well. I am not planning on staying here for ever, and would never adopt a large or even medium sized dog as I agree it's not fair to the animal to do so. I don't have the dog yet, and I don't "need" a dog, but I would like to rescue a dog who needs a loving home and share my life with him/her. I'm sorry that you don't feel your place has enough room, but my animals alone will have an entire bedroom to their selves and even my cats go outside (we have a small shared yard) for walks. I have considered the space issue, and may even wait until I move to adopt, but this question isn't about the size of my home, it's about acquainting two inside cats with a potential inside dog. My duplex is me, my boyfriend, and two cats (all of average size), and I am not planning on
I have heard of litter training Chi's but I need to do some research first. I find the idea very compelling.

 

[Karen Brittain]

Contact your cat's vet. They have Great suggestions. Why do you need a dog anyway??? In that amount of space, it may be considered too small for 3 pets like that. I am in a space about as big with 2 cats and have been begged to adopt another cat, but my place is Too Small! Please think twice about getting another animal. Be sure.

 

[emolicious813]

Most dogs get along fine with cats and vice versa. It may take time for everyone to adjust, but it would most likely work out. A gated off area would be excellent for the cats (it would give them a safe haven from the dog during the adjustment period), however you could also litter-box train your dog instead of relying on a potty pad.

 

[smb]

First off, TONS of kudos to you for wanting to adopt a dog from a rescue shelter. And, given that you have experience with raising a dog, that's even better. I'm sure you'll make a good dog parent again Alot of shelters have backgrounds on the dogs they take in, so try and find one that either has a recessive personality or is good with cats (if possible).

Either way, I think you're going about it the right way; gate off an area where your cats can still feel safe and where they can get away from the dog; a gate will also help facilitating them 'getting to know each other' through the transition period. Introduce them slowly, apart from each other but where they can see and smell each other. I'm sure it will be a challenge getting them acclimated, but be patient and they could very well become buddies. Or, maybe your kitties will always need an area that's just theirs.. Only time will tell. But, it sounds like you're willing to make some adjustments and give a VERY deserving dog a good home, so that said I think everything will turn out fine.

Best of luck to you!