Tips for Bringing Dogs and Cats Together
The war between cats and dogs is a topic of debate from Hollywood to the native peoples. The owners of multiple pets have examples of cats that approach their canine companions, dogs chasing cats outside their territory, or the two species that are respectfully ignored. The two do not have to automatically fight like dogs and cats. “Your ability to get along is made up of your individual experiences with the other species accumulated before being paired. Their communication styles differ a lot, which can lead to confusion: a dog shakes its tail to show the happiness and the eagerness to play; A cat whips its tail to indicate discontent or anger. You can help them share a home by keeping the best interests and instincts of each pet in mind.
As puppies and kittens have not had (bad) experiences with each other, they are carried faster than the older pets. So it makes sense, if you’re thinking of having one of each, to take them as young. Growing up together, they’re going to form a bond. However, a game of puppies can still be a bit rough for a fragile kitten who will always be more tiny than his canine companion. Always monitor your interactions, even if they are friendly: a kitten may point out that she has finished playing, but the energetic puppy might still be anxious to go, and his activity may confuse her. Teach the puppy to play chasing a toy, never to his smaller feline friend; This will make sure that you grow up respecting, not chasing, smaller animals.
A cat that is curious but not fearful of dogs, and a dog that has at least an undulating knowledge with felines is the ideal pairing. Any pet you are adopting, a rescue organization or animal shelter will gladly work with you to help select the best candidate, based on the history and personality of the animal you are choosing and one at home.
A stray or feral cat who needs to be socialized and acclimated to inner life can be a danger to a resident dog because she is accustomed to seeing dogs as the enemy, animals struggling instead of friendship. And some breeds of dogs, such as terriers, hounds and grazing dogs, should not live with cats. Their instincts, which lead them to collect, shake and kill prey, will endanger the felines that they see as something to pursue.
Cats are territorial and do not like change, so a supervised and gradual awareness of another pet is the best method to keep the peace. Patience is a necessity, as the introductory phase could take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, or more time in some cases. Stick to the animal’s favorite rhythm and don’t force them to be together. Speak in soft, conversational tones to both animals, and spend quality time with each other in their separate spaces, without neglecting the resident mascot to give you the new extra attention. Letting each animal see for short periods in a neutral room and gradually increasing exposure will ensure that there is room for more than one pet.