The conflict between cats and dogs is a known fact. It was even evident in the popular cartoon series Tom and Jerry produced by William Hannah and Joseph Barbera.
However, plenty of pet owners testify to their cats and dogs getting along quite well, despite popular beliefs. Hence, it’s possible for the two species to get along, and become good buddies.
According to pet experts at Dog Academy, they demonstrate the ability to get along only if they’ve had a previous experience of living with another species. Since both the animals communicate quite differently when it comes to expressing themselves, confusion may ensue.
Regardless, we are here to show you exactly what you can do to let the two different genera of animals live together harmoniously. So enjoy!
1. It’s Easier When They are Young
A puppy and a kitten can get along easily since they had no previous bad experiences with other species. Also, because of their young age, they will welcome anything and anybody with open arms.
As they grow up together, they will develop a deep friendship. You should consider the breed of the dog and the cat, and make sure they match size. That is because if the puppy is too big, it may harm the tiny kitten.
Moreover, playtime can get too rough for the kitten as the pup grows up. In an effort to teach the pup to respect the kitten, instead of chasing it, give it a toy to pursue.
2. Patience is the Key
Don’t expect your pooch and your kitten to be friends at first sight. They need a few days to a week to sense each other out, and get closer.
Since pets are territorial, you can’t force them to get along. They have to get to know each other at their own paces.
If they are living in the same house, they are bound to run into each other. Talk to them softly, and use toys to invite them to play together.
You can also let them meet each other from across a pet gate. Since a dog is more hyper and aggressive, don’t let it get too close to the cat.
Some pet owners prefer to leash their dogs when they are meeting cats for the first few times. It is important that you supervise when they are together at least for the first few days.
3. A Cat Needs Its Own Territory
A cat’s personality and preferences differ greatly to that of a dog. A cat needs to feel safe in her territory without having to worry about a dog wanting to be friends. This is due to its territorial nature.
Therefore, it will be your job to teach your dog to respect a cat’s boundaries. Use commands whenever you see your dog crossing its boundaries.
It’s better to let the two animals eat and sleep separately. They will learn more about each other by sniffing the scent left by the other. As they get more used to the other animal, their fears towards each other will also melt away.
In all honesty, it actually depends on the cat to accept the dog. A dog would normally accept the other animal easily, but the cat takes time to analyze the dog before fully accepting it as its family.
Some pet owners rub a towel on their dog, then let their cat smell it. Initially, the cat may not react specifically to the unfamiliar scent. When this is done a few times over, the cat relaxes to the scent.
4. Cradle the Cat When Introducing to the Dog
Once you feel like they have both sniffed each other’s presence, it’s time to let them get a little bit closer. Cradle your cat in your arms, and bring it closer to the dog so they can both see each other.
However, don’t let go of your cat, as this may frighten her. Your cat may respond in a variety of ways, while you introduce it to the dog. If it shuts away from the dog, take it slow.
They may stare at each other, and try to understand the other’s scent. But be mindful of your cat’s reactions throughout the procedure. Finally, give them both treats for taking the attempt to get along.
Furthermore, whatever you do, keep the cat in your arms ensuring it that you won’t let her go. Give the cat a chance to understand its canine family member while being held safely in your arms.
5. Give Your Cat a Place to Escape to
As you make progress by following the steps discussed below, gradually you should let your cat and dog roam around the house as they please. But you have to give your cat a place to escape to, just in case your dog becomes aggressive or clingy.
Bring a cat tree where your cat can escape to whenever it feels threatened by the dog. It can also attempt to climb up furniture in the house to stay away from the dog.
When this happens, just let it. Forcing the cat to hang out with the dog may not be your cat’s cup of tea.
Additionally, you can spay or neuter both your dog and cat, since sometimes hormones are responsible for making dogs aggressive. You should also not let your dog get close to your cat’s space, food or the litter box. Your cat won’t feel good about the situation if her personal space is invaded by the dog.
Final Thoughts
As you follow the steps, you will allow a sweet bond to create between the two pets. It may not happen in a few weeks, and may take more time. Hence, it’s better to research about the potential of your dog and cat getting along before deciding to purchase a combo like this.
Whether you are a cat person or a dog person, you can do a research on what sort of pet can adjust to living with another animal better. However, those cute videos of cats and dogs on YouTube are not lies.
If your cat and dog can manage to get along eventually, it will be the sweetest thing ever. And you will be the one uploading videos of them doing cute things together!
Click on the pictures to see what kittens we currently have available.
Until our next cat convo
