Getting a new pet can be an exciting and confusing time for both the humans and the animal/s. While dog training is my specialty, being a trainer has also led to numerous opportunities to work with other pets too, particularly cats.
One of the things I have found very helpful is to get creative with the use of a crate. For example, in homes with a new dog and an older cat, sometimes there can be an issue wherein the dog chases the cat, so the cat runs. Or the cat runs, so the dog chases. You can help them learn to coexist by having them spend time together… by keeping them in separate crates within view of one another. This keeps both pets safe, prevents running away or pouncing on one another, and helps them learn that seeing one another is just another mundane part of every day life… not an exciting or traumatic event.
Begin with the crates several feet apart from one another, and gradually move them closer together as the pets become more comfortable. Of course, you’ll have to use your judgment on this… if the dog is barking at the cat, you may need to move the crates even further apart at first. Do this for short periods of time every day.
Another time I’ve found crate training to be helpful is with kittens, using the crate for training the same way you would with a dog… for supervision. Just as you wouldn’t want your puppy to spend time unsupervised in the house because he might chew things or get into mischief, the same is true for a new cat or kitten. If he is safely tucked away in his crate while you’re at work, then you don’t have to worry about him developing the habit of clawing your furniture or drapes. Then when you are home, if/when he scratches, you’ll have the opportunity to catch him in the act and redirect his scratching activities to an appropriate scratching post.
Of course, a cat or kitten will not require the use of a crate anywhere near as long as you would with a puppy. But it can be an extremely helpful tool in preventing bad habits in the early days of a new cat joining your family.
Don’t forget, you’ll need to keep a litter pan in the crate with the cat, and it’s usually best to use a very small one so it doesn’t use up all the space. The dollar store is usually a great place to find one.
When it comes to training any pet in your home, sometimes a little creativity can go a long way!
