Typically, people claim that cats and dogs have always been enemies. However, there are many reasons to disregard this statement putting into consideration the fact that you will occasionally see them snuggling together and enjoying each other’s company. However, what we need to know is that the two animals speak different languages and getting them to be friends can be a real hassle!
Do you want to help your cat and dog get along? Well…. Read on!
First, you need to understand that cats are naturally aloof and get frightened easily. This is contrary to a dog that is gregarious and territorial and therefore wants to be the king of the jungle. Being indifferent does not necessarily mean that the two cannot live in the same place; all they need is your help to cope with one another. Luckily for you, this article will help your cat and dog live in harmony.
Take personality into account rather than breed
Many people hold strong beliefs that certain kinds of dogs or cats will never get along with the others no matter what you do. However, we should not let their origin blur us from seeing their real personality. Although some dogs are hard at bonding, you should familiarize yourself with which dog breeds are best with cats to avoid hard times in your home.
What determines their level of bonding is its energy levels and temperament. This means that if you find an aggressive dog who wants to announce his territory, know that it is not the favorable breed to live with cats. Moreover, you will find an aging dog that prefers keeping his distance from kittens.
From this, we can conclude that if your pet’s personality fails to match up with that of the other, you don’t have to force it. All you need to do is have a backup plan to ensure that your house arrangement keeps them separated for as long as possible.
Train your dog
If you want your dog to bond with the cat, you have to teach him on ways to control its impulses. You can learn this through observation. For example, if you see him leaping across for a fallen slice of bread or when something passes by, those are red lights that he will behave the same when you introduce a cat. Teach him to respond to commands such as ‘come,’ ‘sit,’ ‘drop’ and many more. The best way to teach him is by keeping him on a leash every time they have a meeting. Every minute your dog stays with the cat should be appreciated with treats to keep him encouraged.
Let the cat and dog follow their noses
Have you ever seen a newborn baby who has been crying only for them to remain dead silent when their mothers hold them? The science behind this is because they can smell their mothers with their eyes still closed. People take this advantage and dress in the baby’s mother’s dirty t-shirts to cool them down when left behind with them. This works well since they assume their mother’s smells represents them.
This is what you should do when you want your canine to get along with your kitty.
Let them sniff each other’s toys and bedding before they come into physical contact for introductions. By doing this, you will satisfy their curiosity and prevent any potential disputes when they meet.
Exercise your dog before they meet with the cat
Before you prepare for their meet-up, ensure that you have taken your dog for a long walk, involved him in plays, and engaged him in an energetic game. The plays ensure that the dog has used up all his energy and will therefore not run after the cat when they meet. In the end, they will have a better chance to bond.
Consider their age
If possible, get a puppy for your cat. Mature animals tend to put off younger ones. You will therefore not be surprised to see your adult cat that puts claws on your puppy’s face in a way to chase them. The best thing is letting your pup grow up with a kitten together.
The best thing to put in mind is that if your cat and god are brought up in a positive and loving environment, they will grow up being friends.