Introducing dog to cat

[Montespan]

I'm having to look after a cat for a relative who has gone into hospital. I had very much hoped to avoid this but it has proved impossible to make other arrangements.

The cat is very nervous (always has been - spent most of her life at my relative's house hiding in the airing cupboard).

She's actually settled in quite well - she spends a lot of time under a bed, but comes out of her own volition and will wander about a bit, purrs when stroked, and eats her food. I have not let her out of the house - she uses a tray in "her" room. She reacts surprisingly well to my children (who are behaving amazingly well with her - very gentle).

But....I have a dog. Another relative (who can't take the cat) is kindly looking after my dog, but I miss her desperately and want her back! She is 5 years old, a Bichon Frisee cross, shy, but a chaser. She chases squirrels and has previously (on one occasion) chased a cat.

Is there anything I can do to introduce them to each other safely? I have put up a child gate at the top of the stairs so there is an area where the dog can't get to - the cat can (and does) squeeze through the banisters. And I've put the cat's food and toys and tray and bed on the upper floor behind the gate.

If I want to get the dog back home now, what would be the best way to handle it?

Any advice much appreciated.

Is your dog crate trained?
How long will you be looking after the cat for?
As long as the cat can escape the dog i.e. a safe preferably high place. I'd introduce gradually. Keep the dog on a lead initially while introducing them. Let the cat walk up to the dog while you have her on a lead, allow the cat to leave the room then close the door and let the dog off lead.
As long as its gradual but I wouldn't leave them on their own without supervision.

Good luck

Thanks! Dog unfortunately never crated. I'll try it this way.

@montespan You don't need to lock your dog in a crate. As long as you have a safe area for the cat to go to that will be OK. Obviously you won't be letting the cat out. Personally I would put cat litter tray plus food upstairs plus a safety gate across the stairs. The cat will probably be nervous and not venture far for a few days. Have treats ready for your dog when the cat does decide to venture. Slowly introduce with your dog on a leash. Distract your dog and reward for ignoring the cat.