Cat meets family's new dog and reaction leaves owners astounded

A new dog owner was left stunned after introducing their cat to the four-legged friend they had recently welcomed home and getting a reaction they didn't expect. The footage was shared to TikTok by user user @adventureswithbin. In the video, the pet owners presented the latest addition to their household to their existing cat and were amazed by the animal's surprising response to having a new friend on their turf.

The user titled the clip: "Throwback to Bingo's first day home." Bingo the pooch was quick to win over hearts as he met Atlas the cat, who could be spotted examining his new family member - carefully poking him with a gentle paw.

Viewers of the clip were also charmed by the cat's behaviour upon meeting their new pal for the first time, with the clip amassing more than four million views and 42,000 likes at the time of writing.

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Subsequent clips revealed just how special their bond has become, and the cat and dog are now fast friends. Users complimented Atlas for being "super chill" throughout the initial meeting.

One viewer commented: "This is day one? What a super chill kitty!" Another remarked: "Extremely relaxed puppy too!"

A third noted: "This cat is a master of gentle introductions." Others described it as the "cutest olive branch" they had ever seen.

Someone else added: "I'm not even a cat person but that cat is so awesome." Another shared: "You can tell they're gonna be besties."

A third person said the cat's wariness might stem from not wanting to frighten the new puppy. The viewer commented: "Gotta introduce myself slowly so he knows I'm safe."

Professional guidance from Woodgreen, a respected pet advice website, said dogs are "naturally curious" animals and introducing them to other pets should be approached "slowly."

The website states: "Dogs are naturally curious and exploratory, so will want to investigate other animals in their environment.

"Some dogs could see smaller animal species as potential prey, so it's best to avoid introducing them, and always keep small pets securely housed. Take it slowly when introducing both species, to ensure their welfare. The slower the introduction, the more successful it will be."

Lindsay Arliss, a canine behaviour and training expert, similarly advocates for a gradual introduction when bringing a new pet home. "Scent swapping", close monitoring, and brief interactions are essential to this process.

She explained: "Scent swapping - take items of bedding or collars/harnesses to place into both pet's spaces to sniff, which introduces their scent to one another. Add some tasty treats around the items to help build a good association with what lies on the other side of the door.

"Always supervise their first meeting. Put your dog's lead on or use a barrier so they can't rush towards the other pet. Use treats and toys as a reward for calm behaviour.

"Keep interactions short and sweet for both pets. Small animals shouldn't feel they have to run away or defend themselves. It is important dogs learn they're not allowed to chase them."