Other pets:  If you have other pets, introduce them slowly. You might want to start out with the new arrival in one room, and them getting to know each other through the door, where they can smell and hear one another.

Your old cat may be instantly jealous, and might arch her back and hiss, howl, or act with disdain and hide. This behavior may last a few hours to a couple of days.

Your dog may growl or bark, or look really put out by the whole idea of a new arrival. On the other hand, they might be delighted with a new companion, and be very curious and eager. Perhaps too eager!

Do remember with a cat that it can jump up off the floor out of the way of a dog in most cases, so even if Fido gets too excited, the cat will be able to moderate the amount of contact time it spends with the other pets in your house.

If your dog is at all aggressive or high strung, definitely try to keep him separated from the newcomer for the first few days until it gets used to the presence of the cat. Certain breeds, mainly terriers, are prone to chase or hunt ‘vermin’ and so movement may set it off.