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getting along, do not punish either of them under any circumstances. End the meeting and try again later when both are calm.

Carefully watch the animals' relationship over the first few months. They may only ever get to mutual tolerance, but that is enough. As long as the cat does not appear constantly stressed and the dog does not react to the cat's presence with aggression or immediate rough play, they can probably continue to get along. However, if those initial fear/aggression reactions continue past one month, it's time to try again with a different animal, or accept that your long-term pet cannot handle the presence of the other species.

Be prepared to take one of the animals back to his or her previous owner and try again. If taking the animal back for a refund is not an option, do not purchase the animal. Some breeders will only give a partial refund due to shipping and resale expenses, however, any responsible breeder, pet sales representative, or private adoption organization will take an animal back for any reason whatsoever, and so does the SPCA. Responsible animal owners, breeders, and sellers always put the needs of the animal above immediate monetary concerns. Do not deal with anyone who fails in this.

So, to recap -

Do test all animals involved first for prey drive/prior trauma/suitability.

Do be prepared to look around for some time for the perfect addition to your house.

Do all of your homework regarding what the new addition will need. A new pet deserves the same level of care that your existing pet gets, but cats and dogs don't have the same needs.

Do make sure you have the time and resources to provide for both animals. If you don't, you need to know that before adopting a new family member.

Do prepare your home ahead of time. Make sure both animals have clearly demarcated territory for their dens, food, and littering places, and that they cannot access each other's territory under any circumstances when no human is present.

Do clip both animals' claws before their first meeting.

Do give the animals each other's blankets/towels to acclimate to the presence of the other without the stress of immediacy or surprise.

Do give each animal time to explore and acclimate to the house without the stress of the other animal's presence.

Do give each animal plenty of attention and praise when one on one.

Do give the cat food and attention first when the two animals can see each other.

Do supervise the first thirty days of meetings closely, with the dog on a leash

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