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If you have a cat and are considering adopting a Basset Hound, you are likely wondering whether they will get along. While every animal has a unique personality, Basset Hounds are generally friendly and tolerant toward other pets. However, proper introductions are key to ensuring a smooth transition. Keep reading as we explain how to introduce the two and the signs to look for to see if they are getting along.
Understanding the Basset Hound Breed
The Basset Hound is a very popular dog breed with short legs and droopy ears. They are friendly, loyal, and gentle toward their owners and make great family pets, but they belong to the hound group, and they were bred to track rabbits and deer, so they have a strong prey drive. These dogs usually stand 14-15 inches at the shoulder and weigh 40 to 65 pounds.
Understanding Your Cat’s Personality
Before introducing a Basset Hound to your cat, you’ll need to understand the cat’s personality and sociability with dogs. Cats that were properly socialized at a young age will likely be social and outgoing and will be accepting of a new family member. Other cats can be more hesitant to share their home with other pets. Your cat’s unique personality will impact the likelihood of the two animals getting along and being able to share the household. If your cat is extremely territorial, trying to bring home another pet may create stress and uneasiness for both.
Introducing Your Basset Hound to Your Cat
If your cat is social, you may be eager to introduce them to your Basset Hound, but it’s essential to take things slowly to ensure a smooth transition. The first steps involve keeping your Basset Hound in a separate area while allowing them to get used to each other’s scent. You can do this by scent swapping—taking a towel or blanket that belongs to one pet and placing it near the other.
Once they seem comfortable with the new scent, you can progress to a controlled first meeting where they can see each other but without direct contact. A baby gate or cracked door can work well for this step, allowing them to observe and adjust without feeling threatened.
Only when both pets seem calm and curious should you proceed to short, supervised in-person meetings. Keep these interactions brief and positive, considering having your dog on a leash to prevent chasing. Gradually increase their time together while monitoring their body language closely. Some pets take weeks or even months to fully adjust, so patience and consistency are key.
Signs That Your Basset Hound and Cat Are Getting Along
1. Playful Behavior
Playful behavior is a sure sign that the two pets are getting along. This behavior can include playing with toys and even chasing each other around the house, which might seem aggressive, but there will be a lack of screeching, whimpering, and other such noises. However, playful behavior can quickly turn into a fight, so it’s important to watch them closely the first few times and separate them if you notice any problems.
2. Mutual Grooming
Cats and dogs will groom each other as a sign of affection, so if you notice your Basset Hound and cat engaging in this behavior, there is a good chance that they’re becoming friends.
3. Cuddling
Another sign of affection for both cats and dogs is cuddling, and it’s a sure sign that your cat and Bassett Hound are forming a strong bond if you find them sleeping together in the same bed or within close proximity of each other.
4. Peaceful Coexistence
If time goes by without any disputes or signs of aggression, there is a good chance that your Bassett Hound and cat are working out ways to cohabitate and are likely getting along well.
Tips for Maintaining a Harmonious Relationship
- Both your Basset Hound and cat should have their own spaces to retreat to when they need alone time. The animals will usually choose these locations themselves, but you can help by placing cardboard boxes, perches, beds, and other items around your home for them to select.
- For most cases, feeding your Basset Hound and cat separately will help to avoid any competition for food. If one is continuously stealing the other’s food, it can create stress at mealtimes, which might lead to fighting and inappropriate eating.
- Ensure that both your Basset Hound and cat get playtime with you to keep them happy and healthy. If both get plenty of your attention, they are less likely to fight among themselves.
- Make sure your Basset Hound and cat receive regular veterinary visits to ensure they are kept healthy and parasite-free, as illness or discomfort can lead to behavioral changes that may strain their relationship. Keeping both pets in good health will help maintain a peaceful and positive dynamic in your home.
Conclusion
Introducing a Basset Hound to your cat can be a wonderful experience if done carefully and thoughtfully. Understanding your cat’s personality, introducing them slowly, and looking for signs that they are getting along can help ensure a harmonious relationship. With patience, time, and effort, your Basset Hound and cat can become good friends and provide you with years of joy and companionship.
Featured Image Credit: Dr. Alan Lipkin, Shutterstock
