your cat will defend itself if it doesnt want to be bothered with. Mya learned that lesson as a pup, she still has the scar on the tip of her nose to prove it! LOL When you see him around the cat, tell him "easy" or "gentle" in our house its "do nice" with the kitty, and they get the drift. A quick sniff sniff, and a few seconds of pawing at each other and the interaction is done. My dogs usually ignore the cats, but sometimes i can see they are interested in having a few minutes of playtime. So as long as you show him how to be gentle near the cat he should be ok. When he is near the cat you could try being there with him, pet the cat, and encourage him to be calm and gentle. Mya will actually lay down in front of the cat, so she doesnt look so big, its the cutest thing!