The stereotype of cats and dogs as eternal enemies arises from their temperamental and behavioral differences. Cats are often distant and self-sufficient. Dogs, on the other hand, are gregarious and boisterous.
Both species can exhibit territorial behavior, feel threatened, and become protective of their personal space.
Owners play an important part in making cats and dogs share the same place. Cats and dogs may accept one other and even become friends when nurtured in a pleasant and caring environment.
It is simpler to get dogs and cats to mingle while they are young than adults. Since each case is different, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for getting cats and dogs to get along. However, here are a few tips to make cats and dogs get along:
We need to make the required arrangements and study the behavior of the current pet and how it will react to a newcomer before getting a cat or a dog. If a cat is in the house, we can invite a friend to come over with their dog. Ignoring the dog, we need to observe how the cat reacts, ensuring that it has an exit route.
If we have a dog in the house, watching how it behaves when it encounters another animal outdoors will give us clues to its behavioral pattern. Is it displaying curiosity, anxiety, or aggression? Is it apathetic? Considering these hints is vital before deciding whether or not to add another pet.
Introducing another pet to a docile and peaceful cat or a kind and friendly dog is easier. Older or sick and disabled cats and dogs and those who are timid or skittish are frequently agitated by the introduction of a new pet. Therefore, we must think carefully before disrupting the balance.
We should allow the cat and the dog enough time and space since this change cannot happen immediately. First, we must keep the newcomer in a closed space while allowing the older pet free access to the rest of the house for the initial 14 days. The older pet should have the upper hand, so it does not feel ignored or endangered.
We should let them sniff each other’s bedding and toys before introducing them face to face. We have to allow the animals to meet each other through the closed door after a couple of days. We should also praise them with compliments and goodies if they behave calmly. However, we must swiftly remove the animal(s) and distract their focus if there are signs of hostility, fear, or overexcitement.
The pets may meet as soon as they are at ease. We need to place a gate or a baby gate in the space with the new pet. We can take the help of others as well. We should open the doorway quietly while keeping the gates closed, when the two pets are at a safe distance, without excitement or fear, since animals can detect emotions.
If the pet exhibits bad behavior, we should immediately withdraw it from that situation and provide a distraction. After repeating this process a few times a day, we can proceed to the next stage if both pets are comfortable meeting each other.
We should allow each pet to approach the gate while holding the dog and the cat on a leash. Then we can release the leash and remain pretty close to the cat if it isn’t comfortable. We can’t let the animals touch one other just yet. Nevertheless, we must reward them for good behavior and withdraw them when there is an unpleasant scenario.
Also check out this blog: How to Get Your Cats Used to a New Kitten
The last stage is dismantling the barrier and enabling both pets to share the same room under supervision. Since the cat is more likely to be harmed (because of its size), the dog must be leashed. It can be a challenge to stop the dog from pulling the leash. Hence, we should continue to reward or remove the animals based on their behavior. We should gradually increase the sessions’ length, allowing the two to get closer each time. This final stage may take some time, and while it may be enticing, we can’t leave the pets alone. They must always be separated when left alone.
All the efforts depend on the cat and dog and their temperament. They may eventually learn to accept one another and might even become friends in some instances. Yet, there may be occasions when the two must be kept separate.
Regardless of how hard we try, dogs and cats may never get along, so we have to be ready for lifelong monitoring. We shouldn’t hesitate to seek assistance from professional trainers, as they can help make the shift smoother.
Every dog is different; however, some breeds get along with cats like a golden retriever, Maltese, basset hound, pug, bichon frise, labrador retriever, dachshund, Boston terrier, Yorkshire terrier, papillon and shetland sheepdog.
Whatever the outcome, we must ensure that the cat has a secure and dog-free space of its own. We should keep the cat’s food, drink, and litter box in an area the dog cannot access. Similarly, the dog must be well trained and offered enough exercise so that it doesn’t have a significant amount of energy to burn within the house.
The cat needs good quality litter boxes and scratchers to feel comfortable in the home. Here’s a list of litter boxes and scratchers:
Loo XL Litter Box in Carbon Grey: The Loo XL litter box is designed beautifully. It is meant for medium and large cats and provides a lot of space. The litter box helps prevent unpleasant clean-ups and keeps a cat happy with creative construction and optimal functioning while retaining a tidy and welcoming house.
The enclosed area of the litter box provides the cat with solitude while keeping the pet parent away from litter box odors. The tray inside is big enough even for large cats, and the exterior litter catcher filter and tray allow the cat to efficiently wipe their paws while preventing litter from being dragged about the carpets!
The Loo XL is built with concern for the environment and is manufactured from 100% recycled ABS plastic. It is also incredibly sturdy and simple to clean. This litter box enhances the look of any room with its modern design. It also comes with a scoop and a scoop holder.
Katrise Standing Cat Scratcher, White: If a cat is obsessed with scratching furniture and walls to the point that it has become its favorite pastime, then this upright cat scratcher is the ideal option!
The clever vertical cat scratcher is built from eco-friendly and innovative zBoards and organic scratchpad material, making it safe for the cat and us. The upright cat scratcher is a wall scratcher created to be a more appealing and fashionable alternative to a tall cat scratching post.
Its sleek and natural appearance will mix well with any décor, and because it is a freestanding model rather than a wall-mounted type, one can simply move it about and even store it in a nook to save room.
Loo Litter Box in Blush Pink: This adorable kitty litter box will make any pet feel special. This pink litter box’s sleek design can blend nicely with any decor. The litter box structure has a lid which efficiently conceals smells.
This useful litter box catcher helps to keep paws and surfaces clean. We can simply rinse it with water! The pink kitty litter box is constructed of 100% recyclable high-grade plastic and ships for FREE. And, of course, who doesn’t love the color pink? This litter box’s unique color will elevate the look of a house.
Katsquare Cube Scratching Post, London Grey: Meowy Studio designed a Cat Scratcher Cube so cats can play, exercise, and scratch without damaging furniture. The Cat Scratcher Cube is thoughtfully built to complement any house style, in contrast to other basic scratchers that may not fit into the area.
The Cat Scratcher Cube gives our cat a space to play and exercise while also giving us a new piece of furniture that serves several purposes. All Meowy Studio items are created from zBoard recycled paperboard, a durable material that doesn’t contain formaldehyde or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Additionally, it’s simple to put together; all we need to do is peel and stick to finish!
Living with dogs and cats doesn’t have to be complicated. We hope this article demonstrated how to properly introduce a dog to a cat so that everyone is content. Our pets need not hiss, bark, or growl because they can coexist peacefully in a house. Don’t forget to check Meowy Studio for the best toys and accessories for pets to play with.
Also read: Everything There is to Know About Cats and Babies
