If you have a cat and consider adding a greyhound to your household, you may be concerned about how the two animals will get along. Contrary to popular belief, many greyhounds and cats can live together peacefully, and numerous success stories support this possibility. However, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure a safe and happy environment for both pets.
Understanding Cat-Compatible Greyhounds
Cat-compatible greyhounds are typically those that did not achieve significant success in their racing careers, which results in a lower monetary value. These dogs are often younger than the more commonly adopted retired racing greyhounds. It’s essential to note that younger greyhounds may require more exercise and may not fit the stereotype of being lazy “couch potatoes.” These dogs can learn to live with cats and become suitable companions with proper training and guidance.
Please note that we do not offer training services; therefore, the new owners are responsible for training.
Not all greyhounds and lurchers can coexist with cats, but some can learn to live together harmoniously. This process, often called detraining, can be time-consuming and requires patience. The success of this process largely depends on the confidence and control exhibited by the new owners. When introducing your greyhound to your cat, it is essential to remain calm and manage the situation carefully, as greyhounds may become overly excited when encountering new animals.
Prepare yourself for the hard work and dedication this process demands. Following the established guidelines is crucial to avoid potential issues and ensure a positive outcome for your new greyhound and cat.
Training Guidelines
You can find our full guidelines here.
What You Will Need:
- A Crate
- A Properly Fitting Collar, Harness, and Strong Lead
- A Muzzle
- Tasty Treats
- Time and Commitment
Steps for Preparing and Introducing a Greyhound to a Cat
Step 1: Prepare the Crate
Set up a crate in the room your family uses most.
Create a comfortable and appealing den inside the crate for your greyhound.
Ensure the crate setup helps everyone stay calm, reduces stress, and keeps your cat safe.
Kent Greyhound Rescue (KGR) can lend you a crate for a £50 deposit. You can collect and return the crate yourself to get your deposit back.
Step 2: Bringing Your Greyhound Home
Muzzle your greyhound before entering your home.
Ensure the greyhound has a properly fitting collar, harness, and a strong double-ended lead.
Stay calm and confident during introductions—your greyhound will sense your emotions.
If you feel nervous, try singing or acting silly to maintain a relaxed atmosphere.
Step 3: Initial Cat Introduction
Introduce your greyhound or lurcher to the cat while the greyhound is muzzled.
If the greyhound lunges or becomes overly excited, firmly say “NO” to stop the behaviour.
Reward calm behaviour with a tasty treat and praise.
Allow the cat to assert dominance, even using gentle physical cues if necessary.
Keep the greyhound, cat, and family in the same room to help the greyhound recognise the cat as part of the family.
Step 4: Crate Training with the Cat
After the initial introduction, alternate between crating the dog and the cat.
Allow the non-crated pet to approach and interact with the crated one to foster familiarity.
Step 5: Gradual Progression
When ready, let the dog out of the crate while still muzzled, under supervision, and on a lead and harness.
Gradually increase their interaction time.
Correct bad behaviour with a firm “NO” and reward good behaviour with treats.
Step 6: Achieving confidence
Never leave the greyhound and cat alone in the same room until you are 100% sure they have accepted each other.
Even then, supervise for short periods and stay nearby to intervene if needed.
Be patient—desensitisation can take weeks or even months.
Step 7: Final Integration
Remove the muzzle once you feel confident but keep the greyhound on a lead.
Continue consistent supervision and training to reinforce positive behaviour.
Remember: Adopting a greyhound is a rewarding journey that requires discipline, patience, and confidence. Many greyhounds and lurchers thrive in homes with cats, so stay committed to the process.
We rehome pets across the UK, provided you are willing to travel to Kent. Please check our FAQs and the rehoming section for more details about the rehoming process. You can view our current greyhounds and lurchers, which are available for adoption here.
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All the team members at Kent Greyhound Rescue are volunteers. Our online shop dramatically assists us in covering kennel and veterinary bills. We offer a variety of products you need for your dog, and all proceeds go towards supporting the rescue.
