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Do I have to QT new kitten?

A

alicia griffin

Savannah Super Cat
My new and first SV kitten arrived today. Right now he is in my bedroom with me. He's running and playing, jumping on me and purring. So I'm thinking its a good sign? I want him to bond with me and he seems to like me already. When can I let him meet my Pomeranian? Who loves kittens and is very gentle and sweet. I don't want my kitten to bond with him instead. How long do I keep them apart? How long before the kitty can go supervised into the rest of the house? My dog is usually my shadow and I feel bad for her
 
WitchyWoman

WitchyWoman

Admin
Staff member
Two weeks is the recommended minimum. It gives time for human/kitten bonding, for kitten to get used to the new environment, and to ensure there are no health issues.

You should use the same technique introducing the dog as you would introducing another cat. See the attachment here for tips http://www.savannahcatchat.com/threads/introducing-a-new-cat-into-the-family.4746/

If the kitten shows confidence and the dog doesn't overwhelm him, you don't necessarily have to do the room swap. I would recommend putting the dog in a crate for the introduction and see how it goes.

The kitten shouldn't be allowed free roam of the house when you're not there until he shows complete confidence with the environment, a good relationship with the dog, and you're sure the entire house has been sufficiently kitten-proofed so he can't hurt himself.
 
NikkiA

NikkiA

Site Supporter
Congrats on your new kitten!
Welcome to the world of being owned by a Savannah!

I would do the 2 weeks of QT. I would also get the kitten checked by the vet in the next day or two.
Doing a QT and having a vet check can't possibly hurt. If the kitten has parasites, keeping him separated from your dog will help to protect the dog from being exposed.
They will be able to hear each other, and smell each other, and this will give the kitten time to feel safe in its new home before being exposed to yet another big change, a new dog. Your dog might be great with kittens, but there is no guarantee that the kitten is great with dogs.

Once the 2 weeks is up, I agree with Deb suggestion that you introduce them while the dog is in the crate, and then see how it goes when you are home to supervise.
 
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