I don't have cats so I don't have much advice to offer, but I just wanted to mention that if you are worried about it, you could consider getting a bigger yorkie rather than a tiny. They come in many different sizes as you will see here. I have a 11.5 pound guy and he would definately be able to play with a 17 pound cat. I might be worried to have a 2 pounder play with a 17 pound cat though. Just something else to consider. Hope you like it here!