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Hello there!

I've had boxers my entire life and we've always had cats as well, so I can tell you from experience that it is defininely possible to have a happy mixed creature family.

Really, I've found that it's the way in which the introduction is made between the cats and dogs, versus the breed of the dog. Individual personality can also affect the situation as well. And even if your creatures don't seem to appreciate eachother at first (which they probably won't - it does take time to adjust), there are things that you can do to help the situation.

Firstly, you have to remember that cats and dogs speak two entirely different languages. For example, a dog communicates excitement and "I want to play" in a very different way from a cat, so this is part of the reason for the traditional conflict between cats and dogs. You, as the owner, have to serve as a mediator of sorts, teaching both species how to act in a manner that's conducive to a peaceful mixed species household.

The introduction between the cats and dogs can really set the tone for their relationship. You'll want to begin by isolating either the dog(s) or cats to a room in the house - maybe a spare bedroom? I've found it's easier to put the cats in the room, where they can live for a couple of days or stay there while the dog is out of his crate. You then allow the dog and cat to sniff eachother under the door. You can also trade blankets or other items like bedding, so familiarize the dog with the cat's scent and vice versa. You'll also want to feed both the cats and dogs right at the door (each on their own side of the door). This will help them associate a good experience (dinner time!) with the other creature.

After two or three days - once the dog's manic excitement about the cat has simmered down - you'll want to allow them to interact, but with a barrier in between. I usually set up a "safe spot."

I work for a shelter and I'm constantly bringing home foster dogs who may or may not have encountered cats. I have one cat in particular who is very very shy and what I've found works well is to provide a safe spot that the dog can't access. You can use a baby gate to section off a room or an entire portion of the house and the cat will understand very quickly that the dog is stuck on the other side of the gate and that they're safe on the other side of the fence. The cat will then gradually peek around the corner and get closer and closer to the gate - she knows the dog can't hurt her when she's on that side of the gate. It may take some time, but this will help the cat explore the dog while remaining in a safe zone.

This other website has some well-explained training tips that may be useful for you: http://www.canismajor.com/dog/dogscats.html

The most common problem involves the dog chasing the cat. The problem is, this is a self-reinforcing behavior. The dog chases the cat, the cat runs, and the dog enjoys the chase - it's very rewarding for the dog, and this satisfies his natural prey drive and only makes him want to chase some more! Meanwhile, the cat wants to run some more, because she wants nothing to do with that dog who is just plain nuts!

So, to fix this problem, you have to work with your dog and the cat.

Just before the dog begins her chase, she'll exhibit certain behaviors -- watch her, you'll see them. It's an intentness that you can tell is about to explode into a burst of energy. This is when you'll want to intervene. Place the dog in a sit and stay. And praise, praise, praise her when she resist the urge. If you don't catch her in time and she begins the chase, you'll want to interrupt her chase (physically and with a stern "no") and then place her in a sit until she has calmed.
Just remember: Reward the good behaviors, and interrupt and neutralize the bad behaviors. Never punish.

If you can work with the cat, you'll want to work on some relationship-building exercises that will help the cat and dog learn to co-exist. That's the first step. You need to remove the cat's fear of the dog, and you need to remove the dog's excitement about the cat.

This website article will give you more information on helping them live together: http://ezinearticles.com/?Can-Cats-and-Dogs-Coexist-Peacefully?&id=322495

And in addition to the exercises mentioned in that article, you can practice peaceful co-existence. One person sits with the dog, one person sits with the cat. Both are in the same room on opposite ends. Praise each when they peacefully co-exist and once they are reliably co-existing at a particular distance, move closer. Eventually, both people should be able to sit next to eachother on the couch, with a dog in one lap and a cat in another. This takes time, but it's a good exercise to practice while watching television or relaxing, and plus, the cat and dog both get lots of attention!

Be sure to supervise the cat and dog interactions until they are reliably comfortable in eachother's presence.

Also, I should note that in rare instances, there are cats who will actually attack dogs, and vice versa. Some animals simply WILL NOT live with another species. I've only seen this once or twice in the past 20 years, so it's not common, but it can occur. If there is an incident where either is seriously injured (and I'm not talking a scratch from the cat - I mean serious, such as a bite wound or outright attack), you must consider rehoming one of the animals, as it's not fair to them or you to keep them in a situation that's dangerous to their health and well-being.

Best of luck! Let me know if there's anything else I can do to assist you!
****Please "ACCEPT" if my answer was helpful!****
-Mia Carter

Expert:	Mia Carter
Pos. Feedback:	99.5 %
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Answered:	11/1/2007

Animal Expert

Specializing in the training and care of ill pets and special needs animals! Mom of 22 pets!