When it comes to cats and dogs getting along with one another, real life is often nothing like what you see in the movies. Most of us know this familiar story of species rivalry all too well, however the truth of the matter is that while the media likes to portray cats and dogs fighting with one another, in reality, there is no reason that the two should not be able to live together in harmony and eventually become the best of friends.
Introducing Cats And Dogs
Taking all things into consideration, it is important that pet owners understand that while the two can become friends, under no circumstances should the cat-dog introductions be handled by simply throwing the two in a room and letting them work things out to their own accord. Not only can that be stressful, but in a worst case scenario it could also be fatal.
It is best to keep the introductions light. Some dogs see cats as prey, and some cats are just plain old mean when a curious dog comes up and tries to play with them. It is for this reason that both pets should be supervised at all times until the two can learn to live together in peace. Both must be handled with care and patience during this transition.
If you are already the owner of a canine companion and are thinking about bringing a cat into the picture it is best to start working on doggy’s obedience before adding a new animal to the household. Your dog should be comfortable on a leash and should also be trained well enough to mind commands. Requests like “sit” and “stay” can come in handy when bringing kitty home for the first time.
For your new cat’s comfort, he or she will do best confined during the early stages of introduction. This confinement should be a small area such as a guest bedroom or a bathroom. It should be an area of the house where kitty can feel safe while still getting used to the new sights and sounds of the house and the smell of your dog. The room should be equipped with anything kitty may need (food, water, litter box, toys). It is also important for pet owners to make one on one visits with kitty during this time and to try and include other family members in on the schedule so that your cat can adjust as quickly and as stress free as possible.
After a few days of practicing this method, put doggy dearest on a leash and try opening the door to the cat’s room. Allow each animal to see one another, but do not allow the dog to chase the cat, even if it is only in a playful manner as this will most likely only intimidate and anger kitty. Use the commands you have taught your dog to make him sit or stay down while the cat gets used to his calmer presence. Never force the two to interact with one another. If the cat prefers to look at the dog from a distance or even from the dark, hidden underneath a bed, this is okay. Reward good behavior in both animals with treats and lots of praise.
Making Progress
Continue to keep doggy on a leash for a few weeks when in the cat’s presence and always make sure that kitty has some sort of escape route in case Fido tries to get too friendly or turns aggressive. A baby gate works great to keep all areas safe, as pup most likely will not be able to cross it but kitty is agile enough to jump right over. Slowly increase the amount of time that the two spend with one another and continue to encourage positive behavior with treats and praise.
When the dog is no longer interested in trying to bother the cat, and the cat feels secure enough to come out from his hiding spot, you are going to want to try and take doggy off of the leash and let them begin their new life together in the same house. How long it will take to get to this step really just depends on the animals involved as well as their temperaments. You must learn to work at their pace. For some animals it could only take a few days time, while others may take a few months. Just be patient, eventually the two will hopefully get to that point. The good news is that it is not uncommon for dogs and cats to become best friends and learn to enjoy one another’s company for life.
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