cats and dogs

[karzon]

I really shouldn't take the time to write this, but whatever. My brain explodes enough today

Comments

[pyrakitten]

i dunno about recommended reading, but as far as introducing them without anyone getting eaten: give them their own rooms for a little while and keep them separated the first couple days, then supervise introductions and interactions when they start getting curious about the animal on the other side of the door. also, apply a lot of love and attention to both, as equally as you can.

[skerrington]

Yay! I'm so jealous! I don't have any recommended reading for you, but I'm sure it abounds if you look in the right places.

[delilahbowie]

Jean Donaldson's The Culture Clash-very good book about basic dog stuff.

Get brave kitten, get dog that doesn't eat kittens. That will make your life a lot easier. I don't know if you already have the dog picked out, but if not, make sure you get one that is cat-tested (if you go shelter route, some will do this for you). Pick a breed or breed mix that is not known to be rough on cats (which means no Northern breeds, no hounds, and probably no herding dogs, although that is more variable).

[karzon]

Thanks! We haven't picked anything, it's going to probably be whatever's at the Humane Society in early June.

[danjaq]

Just get a really big cat like the Savannah or Maine Coon. Then the cat will eat the dog. Especially if you get a hilarious dog like a pug.

http://www.synthstuff.com/mt/archives/savannah_cat_standing.jpg

http://mainecoonkittens.co.uk/193_9364_copy.jpg

[skerrington]

Or a Norwegian Forest Cat.

[karzon]

That sounds like a small version of a puma ... I'd like to keep all my limbs intact!

[kepharel]

Culture Clash is a great book, as is Don't Shoot the Dog - both are excellent for understanding dog culture and how to train/interact with them. I can't help with cats; I've never had one. Best of luck!