Introducing a Feral into Home w/ Two Dogs

frenchwench

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Hello.  I've been reading on line about how to domesticate a feral cat and that it can be done.  I'd like to domesticate the feral that is in my avatar pic, but I have two dogs.  One is a 173 pound mastiff and the other is a 37 pound Basenji/Rat Terrier mix.  My Mastiff is good with other dogs, but my Basenji wants to rip apart any dog she sees (except for my Mastiff, of course).   It doesn't matter if it is a Doberman or a little Jack Russel Terrier, she just doesn't seem to like other dogs.  I got her from the pound when she was almost 1 year old, and I already had the Mastiff.  They get along splendidly, but I think my Basenji has extreme fear aggression when it comes to other dogs.  I have gotten both of my dogs to not bark at Marvin when he comes right up to the window to let me know he is here and ready to eat.  They used to bark at Marvin, but even though they have accepted him coming right up to the window, that is a whole different story from not being separated by glass.  I'm just afraid that even if I try to follow all the steps I have read on line to bring a feral into my home, that I will not be able to get my Basenji to accept Marvin, and may even kill Marvin.  My Mastiff is a work dog and my Basenji is a prey dog.  Please, I am looking for sound advice as to whether to even try introducing my feral to my dogs.  If not, I will do everything I can to make a nice home for Marvin in my garage, especially in the winter time, as I am amazed that he survived last winter's Polar Vortex (I live in Cleveland, Ohio.)  Thanks in advance for your best advice. 
 

ondine

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First off, thank you for helping him. If he isn't neutered, get that done, along with his shots, as soon as possible.

If he already comes into your garage, that may be the best place for him. If he is truly feral, meaning he was never socialized to humans, he may not want to be an indoor cat. Providing him with a safe place. In your garage is an excellent compromise.

If he does turn out to like being indoors, then you can introduce him slowly to your dogs. A separate room for him is ideal, until he gets used to being inside and having roommates. The roommates need to adjust too, so you can use a screen door to let them sniff one another and maintain separation. You may have to reinforce it with wire, in case the dogs claw the screening.

Good luck and keep us posted!
 

red top rescue

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My personal belief is that if any dog is not fully trained to "sit" "stay" and"leave it,"  that dog is not ready to be introduced to a cat.  Even if the dog is on a leash, lunging for the cat is not a good thing.  Those are basic dog obedience commands that ALL dogs should know and obey regardless.  Most feral cats dont trust dogs for good reason, because those instincts have kept them alive.  If he was actually a previously owned cat, that may be a different story.  Still, I believe making him his own space in the garage with a bed and heater for winter sounds like a good plan.  Definitely get him neutered and vaccinated as soon as you can.  He will stink up the garage otherwise, as male cats' urine develops a strong skunky odor once they mature.
 
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shadowsrescue

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I have a largish dog ( 55 lbs Samoyed) who has learned to live with 2 rescued cats.  One was brought in as a kitten and the other (also named Marvin!!) was a feral/stray I brought in last year.  It can be done, but it took alot of work.  My dog was well behaved, but so very curious.  I kept the animals separated for over 2 months before beginning any intros.  Marvin had his own room so that he could adjust to indoor life.  I then had a screen door that I placed in the door to allow sight visits.  I kept my dog on a leash for a good 2 months once Marvin was allowed out.  At times I would even use a carabiner and clip her to my pants.  Marvin knew he was safe.  Gradually I allowed the dog roam with the leash on so that if needed I could grab her quickly.  She chased a few times, but the chase was just to chase, not to kill. 

The feral might be best in a garage to start.  See how he does.  You can provide shelter and warmth there to start and see how it goes.  Please do get him neutered or you will have lots of problems.  
 
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frenchwench

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I take Marvin in to be spayed/neutered this Saturday, 9/20.  I have a carrier that I tied the door open, so it won't close and have been feeding her in there.   She goes into the carrier and eats and then walks out when she's done.  Little does she know next Saturday morning, the door will close.  I believe she is a she, because she is a Torti, and I ready almost all the time they are female.  Well, I'll find that out for sure on Saturday.  Thanks for all your help and support!  I will let you know how it goes next Saturday!!
 
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