French Bulldogs Friendly with Cats?
gollygear March 9th, 2008
Are French Bulldogs Friendly with Cats?
I am hoping to get a french bulldog puppy Christmas 2008.
I have an indoor only, 12 year old siamese cat that has been an only child his entire life. He’s very friendly and will probably like having a buddy. I want to make sure the transition is easy for both of them. I don’t want my siamese feeling neglected.
Are there some tips you can give me to make sure this is a fun and smooth transition for both? Also, is there a specific sex and/or type of french bulldog that would be best suited for my male, siamese?
Hope writes -
Good for you! Planning ahead is the best way to make this an easy transition for your four-legged family members. You have plenty of time to prepare for your new addition!
After the puppy’s health, your most important consideration will be how well-socialized the puppy has been in its formative early weeks. You want a puppy who’s been raised in a family environment, with other dogs, possibly cats, and had some experience with all ages of human beings. You want a puppy who’s bright, inquisitive and engaged.
When you first meet your puppy at the breeder’s home, before it’s ready to come home with you, bring along a washcloth, old t-shirt or any clean, soft piece of material. Rub the puppy gently with the cloth and, when you get back home, let your cat examine it thoroughly. Just having the pup’s scent around will let the cat know that something new is about to happen.
When you do bring your puppy home, you will be cage- or crate-training him/her. Your puppy’s crate will serve many purposes in addition to potty training. The cat will be able to check out the dog and the crate will allow both dog and cat a safe way to learn about each other without interacting.
Potty training your pup requires that you constantly watch the puppy whenever he’s not in his crate - you’ll be able to monitor your two pets at all times. As long as your cat is able to get away from the puppy, and as long as he gets individual time with you (with puppy safe in his crate) you should be fine.
There are a few other things you should be aware of. The cat’s food and litter box should be out of puppy’s reach at all times - forever! Unfortunately, many dogs see the litter pan as a snack box. Disgusting to us, but often true.
If your cat still has his claws, be very careful about unrestricted play, even if the two seem to be getting along fantastically. Cat scratches and bites are notorious causes of nasty infections.
There’s no reason that cats and dogs can’t live serenely together. Best of luck with the addition to your family!
Hope
