The introduction will affect your cat’s relationship with your new Shih Tzu the most. Take your time and do it the right way — slowly.
It’s important not to leave them alone during this meeting phase so you can monitor for signs of stress or aggression and stop something before it starts.
Section off a room or portion of the room with gates or fencing for your cuddly kitty and move their belongings there. Their bed, their food and water bowls, their scratching post, and litter tray — all of it.
Preferably restrict your pupper to one room in the very beginning, so they have time to acclimate to their new surroundings, smells, and objects.
Offer some tasty treats to reinforce that this new addition is a good thing that they should like. If the Shih Tzu gets too excited and starts to bark, take them away for a little and then try again.
Once your cat shows confidence and the novelty has worn off for your pupper, it’s time to bring them to a neutral space where they can meet without a barrier. Keep your Shih Tzu on a leash, though, just in case.
Once you’re completely confident your cat and Shih Tzu are on good terms, you can leave them alone together for periods of time.
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