This may seem to be a common concern for many people but one that is handled quite comfortably most times. We have had many pups introduced to our older dogs over the years without any real problems. The same goes for cats.
People have always heard that cats and dogs should hate each other and that is not necessarily true. In fact, I remember when growing up that my grandparents’ dog (who wasn’t fond of me because I got all the attention when there, not him) was best friends with the family cat. They ate from the same dishes at times, used the same water bowl and actually slept together curled up with the cat using the dog as a pillow.
When you get a new pup or kitten brought into the home, be gentle and don’t just throw the new pet in the face of the older pets. Let it be a gradual thing. They most likely are not going to say “oh yea, another pet to steal my attention!” Speaking from experience, I would hold the new pet on my lap, while petting and giving the older pets a lot of attention verbally and physically. Let them be loose together a little at a time, watching the reaction of the older pet(s). To begin with, a puppy or kitten is very playful and your other pet may not be quite ready to be pounced at and deal with that burst of energy when they are used to lots of naps and chewing their toys/bones without sharing.
It cannot be a forced situation. They will come around. Sit on floor with your new pet and let the older pet make their moves at their own pace. It will happen. The older pet may growl or show teeth and signs of discomfort for a while, but it is only temporary. The main thing is to show a great amount of attention to the current residents of the home while introducing the new “intruder”. The older pets need to be assured that you still love them very much and have plenty of room to love another.
Start little playing times together to get the old and new pets playing together. Before long they will be playing together without your intervention, to the point of almost driving you crazy, just like kids getting in trouble. Yea, you have succeeded in them bonding.
Of course, as with any pet, they should each have their own space: each their own crate, bed, favorite toy and so forth and when the pup or kitten invades the older pet’s space, direct him away from it and vice versa. The main thing you are trying to enforce is that all your loving pets are loved equally and treated the same. Again, as with children, you don’t want to play favorites and have any resentment among your pets. Believe me; they will express their animosity by spiteful actions. I am sure you want to achieve harmony within your home, family and all pets. Good luck to you and any new family members.
