We are here to debunk the long-standing rumor that cats and dogs can’t share the same roof, let alone bed.
Which of course, they can and do. In fact, the interaction between these two equally adorable, but very different, types of pet is priceless. Those who have a mixed household will surely back me up on this.
For those of you who have yet to experience the joy of inter-pet household but are considering bringing a cat into a dog household or vice versa, here are just a few tips and tricks to get you started.
Don't force it
Let your kitties and doggies acclimate to each other on their own time. What we've found is that the best way to let them get close but not too close is with baby gates. You'll be surprised how quickly the kitty realizes that he or she is safe and that it's four-legged sibling can't get through the gate. They can smell, sniff and even paw at each other with the gate safely between them. And give it time. It probably took you awhile to get to to know your friends, so allow your pets time to adjust as well.
Pay attention
Animals can get jealous and even a very mellow dog or cat might snap at the new addition when they see them being showered with attention from their human. Make sure that you take time away from the new furry one and still cuddle with your current pet. And don't forget praise and treats! Reward positive interactions every chance you get!
Some preparations won't hurt either: trimming your cats nails and taking your dog for a run or walk to burn off some energy (and for younger or more rumbustious doggies keeping him or her on a leash) is a great way to ensure that the first interaction is safe as possible.
Location, location, location
For a cat-condo, that is. There are plenty of cat trees to choose from at your nearest pet store, or if you're handy with a hammer and nails, you could even build one yourself. Don't have the room? Any other safety zone that will allow the kitty to make their way up, out of reach from the curious dog, will do just fine. Think counters, TV stands, fireplace mantles, windowsills, etc.
Set your expectations
Lastly, please be patient. And don't expect your feline and canine to become best friends overnight. Or even after years of living together, despite the plethora of Facebook pictures showing sleepy, cuddling puppies and kitties.
And yes, your pooch might try to play with or even chase the cat once in a while. And will probably get a few scratches in return. Neither of those makes the dog predatory or the cat vicious. However, do interrupt the chasing or any other aggressive behavior as soon as it occurs and redirect the pets attention with toys, another activity or, you guessed it, treats! Follow best practices of having a mixed household and as long as the cat and dog feel safe and happy in your home, consider the co-habitation successful.
Please do the homework before expanding your family and talk to your rescue organization to learn how your new pet may interact with other animals. Otherwise, your new and old family members could end up fighting like, well, you know.
Which of course, they can and do. In fact, the interaction between these two equally adorable, but very different, types of pet is priceless. Those who have a mixed household will surely back me up on this.
For those of you who have yet to experience the joy of inter-pet household but are considering bringing a cat into a dog household or vice versa, here are just a few tips and tricks to get you started.
Don't force it
Let your kitties and doggies acclimate to each other on their own time. What we've found is that the best way to let them get close but not too close is with baby gates. You'll be surprised how quickly the kitty realizes that he or she is safe and that it's four-legged sibling can't get through the gate. They can smell, sniff and even paw at each other with the gate safely between them. And give it time. It probably took you awhile to get to to know your friends, so allow your pets time to adjust as well.
Pay attention
Animals can get jealous and even a very mellow dog or cat might snap at the new addition when they see them being showered with attention from their human. Make sure that you take time away from the new furry one and still cuddle with your current pet. And don't forget praise and treats! Reward positive interactions every chance you get!Some preparations won't hurt either: trimming your cats nails and taking your dog for a run or walk to burn off some energy (and for younger or more rumbustious doggies keeping him or her on a leash) is a great way to ensure that the first interaction is safe as possible.
Location, location, location
For a cat-condo, that is. There are plenty of cat trees to choose from at your nearest pet store, or if you're handy with a hammer and nails, you could even build one yourself. Don't have the room? Any other safety zone that will allow the kitty to make their way up, out of reach from the curious dog, will do just fine. Think counters, TV stands, fireplace mantles, windowsills, etc.
Set your expectations
Lastly, please be patient. And don't expect your feline and canine to become best friends overnight. Or even after years of living together, despite the plethora of Facebook pictures showing sleepy, cuddling puppies and kitties.
Please do the homework before expanding your family and talk to your rescue organization to learn how your new pet may interact with other animals. Otherwise, your new and old family members could end up fighting like, well, you know.
