My new puppy and my cat

I have a cat and I recently just got a new puppy.

The cat is going to be spayed next month, but for the time being she is in heat. My new puppy is going insane. He's constantly at her licking her and sniffing at her and so on. I do my best to keep him off because I am concerned that it might be harmful to my puppy and/or my cat. Is this normal behavior and will it hurt him or her?

Thank you

I doubt if this has anything to do with the cat being in heat - although I could be wrong - puppies are always keen to explore things, especially living, moving things. So you need to start training him to 'leave it' when this interest gets out of hand. If the cat is hissing and hiding, as opposed to sticking up for herself (keep her claws trimmed, to protect puppy's nose), this is the moment to intervene with the command. Then you direct the puppy's attention elsewhere, to a game or another command or whatever, but away from the cat.

Right now, designate an area, preferably a room, and put up some kind of gate or barrier that the cat can get over but the puppy can't topple. Of course you'll have to step over it, too, but it's only temporary. This is the cat's safe place, where she can retreat when the puppy is driving her crazy. Then, barring outright attacks, let them get on with it, but always be there in case things get out of hand. When you are not at home, lock the cat in her space.

She will be a much calmer kitty when she has been spayed. Gradually they will get used to each other and may even become friends, who knows. Just take it at the cat's pace. Good luck!