We’ve all heard the phrase “fighting like cats and dogs,” mainly to describe two animals (or humans, for that matter) that are always at odds with each other. However, relationships between cats and dogs are possible, depending on their personalities and their owners’ patience and understanding. And while the initial introductory period can be tricky, this unique relationship can be quite rewarding both species.
Dog and Cat Behavior:
By nature, dogs are predators and often chase things smaller than them—including cats. However, this doesn’t mean that dogs and cats are not able to live in harmony.
As the two most common household pets, the way dogs and cats relate to each other have a lot to do with their temperament, and whether either have had any adverse reactions to members of different species in the past.
For example, a dog raising his paw to a cat may mean he wants to play, but a cat can take it as a sign of an attack, prompting the cat to swat her paw at the dog, sending her into a hissing fit. Likewise, a cat that tries to rub up against a dog may be acting friendly, but a dog can interpret that as a threat—especially if the cat is near his toys or food—and can cause the dog to growl or bark.
However, getting a puppy and a kitten at the same time and raising them together is an option: that way neither has previous fears of each other, unless one of the animals is overly-aggressive and domineering.
Coexisting Peacefully:
It is possible for cats and dogs to coexist together and build a friendship, says Bobbie Cooper, director of partnership marketing for Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI).
“When we first got our dog, Pearl, our cats hissed and put up a fight; as a small puppy, Pearl was somewhat intimidated by them,” she says. “But as time passed, they became friends, and before long, the dog and our two cats were curled up sleeping together on the couch.”
Cooper says that Pearl, her six-year-old Schnoodle (a cross between a schnauzer and a poodle) even cleans Cleo, her 12-year-old tabby’s, ears. “You see Cleo sitting there with her eyes closed as Pearl licks her ears, and you can just tell she is in heaven.”
Integrating Cats and Dogs:
When first introducing a cat into a dog-only household (or vise-versa), keep the following in mind:
A cat and dog share a bed
Always supervise the animals until you know how they will get along.
Separate the cat and dog during mealtimes.
Separate the animals physically when leaving your house. Make sure to provide each with fresh water, resting beds, toys and/or a litter box.
Consider using a baby gate to allow the animals to sniff each other without coming into full contact.
Take puppies/dogs to obedience classes to learn basic commands such as “sit,” “stay” or “down.”
Just as with humans, friendships take time to develop; don’t be upset if your animals don’t become pals right away. Regardless, it’s important to give equal amounts of attention to all your pets so no one feels left out.
As Cooper puts it, “It’s reassuring to know that dogs and cats can coexist in a household, and that I don’t have to worry about leaving them alone together. Plus, Pearl and the cats seem to each take comfort from having someone that is more like them than we are, even if they’re from different species!”
Article Source: http://www.petinsurance.com/pets
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