Cat being introduced to new puppy

Question
Hi Amy - I have a 4 year old, 3 legged cat who is a bit scatty and after strocking her for a bit will go to scratch you. Saying this she is a contented cat. I am thinking of buying a puppy and everyone has said that they will get on that the cat will scratch the puppy and then they will stay out of each others way. When I get the puppy it will be away from the cat in a seperate room from her. Please can you let me know what you think as if I got the puppy and they did not get on I could not get rid of my beloved scatty cat but saying that would not then want to give the puppy away.

Please help....

thanking you in advance

Answer
Hi Mandy,
Very few adult cats quickly get along with dogs.  In general they will check each other out, the cat will swipe the dog with her claws, and the dog will learn to stay away from her.  After awhile, once the dog has learned not to get too close, they may tolerate each other.  Do not expect them to ever be good friends.  

Absolutely keep them separate from each other for several weeks.  When introducing them it would be nice if the puppy were on the other side of a "gate", where they could see each other but they are still separate.

Good luck!