we are hoping to get a puppy sbt in the new year, we are also thinking about getting a kitten for my daughter. should we get the puppy first or the kitten?

Hi Guest,
Get them both at the same time, and keep the winner.

Sorry Guest, only kidding.  But basicly it could be a good idea to get them both at the same time, berfore either of them gets a chance to become 'teritorial'.  They will then think that they are 'both' litter-mates and will most likely play and do 'mad things' together.

Best wishes to you.  (Why don't you register on this board, then you can keep us informed as to your progress with these two demented creatures.)

Harry C

Yep I agree with Harry

I got two kittens then 6 months later got my pup.  The kittens had already met my mums dog so they didnt have a problem with dogs which was good because they didnt run away from the pup when I got him.  The dog is 7 months old now and is best friends with the cats but I do have to be careful because sometimes the dog gets a bit over playful and wacks the cats with his huge Setter paws or grabs them in his mouth

I dont think it makes a difference which you get first, both at the same time would be an advantage though !!

I agree, if you get them at the same time they can grow up together and it will be much easier all round :-)

my cats were 3 and 1 when we got our first dog - we never had a problem with the dog chasing the cats etc, and they all curl up together now. I've read somewhere that once you are pretty calm about the introduction of the both animals and don't start over protecting one or the other they soon learn to respect each other.