How to Introduce Your Cavapoo to a Cat: A Guide to Furry Friendship

“Two pets, one home. Let’s make it a match made in heaven!”

If you’re bringing a Cavapoo into a home with a cat (or vice versa), you might wonder: Will they ever get along? The good news is, yes, they absolutely can! Cavapoos are naturally social, adaptable dogs, and with the right approach, your pup and kitty can learn to live together peacefully. Maybe, they’ll even become the best of friends.

At Jones Farm Puppies, we’ve helped countless families create harmonious multi-pet households. Whether your cat is a confident explorer or a cautious observer, this step-by-step guide will help you set the stage for a happy, stress-free introduction.

Step 1: Prep Work Before the Big Meet

Know Their Personalities

Cavapoos are friendly, curious, and sometimes a little excitable. They usually want to be friends with everyone!

Cats: Ranges from “I hate everything” to “Eh, you’re tolerable” to “Let’s snuggle!” Adjust your approach accordingly.

Set Up Safe Spaces

For the Cat: High perches, baby gates, or a separate room with food, water, and a litter box. Cats feel safer when they can observe from above.

For the Cavapoo: A leash for control, a cozy crate, and plenty of toys to redirect energy.

Swap Scents First

Before they meet face-to-face, let them get used to each other’s smell:

• Rub a towel on your Cavapoo and place it near the cat’s favorite spot.
• Do the same with the cat’s bedding and let your pup sniff it.

Reward both with treats for calm behavior!

Step 2: The First Introduction – Keep It Chill

On a Leash, Please!

• Keep your Cavapoo on a leash for control.
• Let the cat approach on their terms. No forced interactions!

Read the Cat’s Body Language

• Good signs: Slow blinks, relaxed ears, curious sniffing.
• Ominous signs: Hissing, swatting, puffed-up tail. If this happens, calmly separate them and try again later.

Treats for Everyone!

• Reward both pets for calm behavior.
• Feed them on opposite sides of a door (without seeing each other first), then gradually move the bowls closer over time.

Step 3: Building a Furry Friendship

Supervised Playtime

• Start with short, controlled sessions.
• If your Cavapoo gets too excited, redirect with a toy or command like “Leave it.”
• If the cat walks away, let them. No chasing allowed!

Teach Boundaries

• Train your Cavapoo to respect the cat’s space. Commands like “Stay” and “Gentle” are key.
• Make sure the cat always has an escape route.

Shared Spaces (Eventually)

• Once they’re comfortable, let them coexist in the same room without forcing interaction.
• Some cats and dogs even cuddle—but don’t rush it!

What NOT to Do

• Force them together – Let them set the pace.
• Punish the cat for hissing – It’s their way of saying, “Back off!”
• Leave them unsupervised too soon – Even friendly dogs can get overly playful.

FAQ: Your Cavapoo & Cat Questions Answered

Will my Cavapoo chase my cat?
Possibly at first, they’re curious! But with training, most Cavapoos learn to respect kitty’s space.

How long until they get along?
It varies! Some pets are buddies in days; others take weeks or months. Patience is key.

What if my cat hates my Cavapoo?
Some cats never become besties, but they can still coexist peacefully. Just ensure the cat has safe zones.

Can Cavapoos and cats share food?
Nope! Keep their meals separate, as dogs might try to eat the cat’s food (and vice versa), which isn’t healthy for pups.

Should I let them sleep together?
Only if they’re entirely comfortable with each other, keep them separate at night.

Final Thoughts: A Happy, Furry Household is Possible!

At Jones Farm Puppies, Cavapoos win over even the grumpiest cats. With patience, positive reinforcement, and plenty of treats, your pup and kitty can live together in harmony, whether for peaceful coexistence or future snuggle sessions.

Do you have more questions about introducing your Cavapoo to a cat? Contact us; we’re always happy to help!