Dogs moving into a cats house.

[Postdog]

Partly for financial reasons, I will be moving into my girlfriends house sometime in the early part of the year. If it wasn't for having to (work cutbacks mean I can't manage the mortgage now) we'd carry on as we are, as at least at my place we have more privacy.

Anyway, she has a cat, 10 years old and very independent, and I have two small dogs, 13 years old and very affectionate. Now obviously they are not going to live forever but does anyone have any experience or advice on how best to get a harmonious household with the pets until then? No way are either of us going to get rid of them, and she loves my dogs anyway.

[beryllium]

Hi Postdog,
We got our rescue recently and the cat was very much established as leader of the pack. (age 10 aswell)
We bought a baby gate and put it at the top of the stairs.
Mr B cut 1 rung out so the cat has full access up and down the stairs and out and also, when our dog goes upstairs she has a greater height over him and good attack position lol and he cannot get into the bedrooms!!! big plus for our cat......
You should keep the cat in for at least 2 weeks to get used to the new smells as it is her house and she is top cat above the pooches.... if she has a litter tray also keep that out of doggy reach and feeding bowls too.....
Best of Luck in your new adventures!!!!!
B. xXx