If you've recently added a dog to your home and are wondering how long it will take for your cat to get used to their new canine companion, the answer isn't always clear cut. In some cases, cats and dogs can become fast friends relatively quickly, while in others it may take weeks or even months for them to reach a comfortable level with one another. Ultimately, the amount of time it takes for a cat to adjust to living with a dog will depend on individual personalities and circumstances.
One of the biggest factors that can influence how well a cat and dog get along is whether they were introduced gradually or suddenly. If possible, it's best to slowly introduce your cat and dog to each other over the course of several days. This gives them time to adjust to each other's smells and presence without feeling overwhelmed. Start by placing your dog's food bowl near where your cat eats so they can get used to each other's scent. Then let them see each other from a distance before allowing them to interact directly. Finally, provide plenty of positive reinforcement (such as treats) when they're around each other so they associate good things with one another.
Even if you follow all the right steps during introductions, there may still be some initial hissing and growling as your cat gets acclimated to their new furry friend. However, as long as both animals are behaving calmly and no one is getting hurt, this is perfectly normal behavior and shouldn't be cause for concern. With patience and time, most cats will eventually come around and learn to tolerate–if not enjoy–living with a dog!