How to Help Your Dog and Cat Live Together Peaceably
The phase, "They fight like cats and dogs" is a common phrase for very good reason. Cats and dogs have been "enemies" for a very long time. However, not all cats and dogs fight, which can be seen in the many households across the world that have both cats and dogs. In order to avoid fights between your dog and cat, there are a couple of things that you can do. This article lists a couple of tips to help your dog and cat live together peaceably.
First of all, it is a good idea to introduce your pets to each other. It has been said that the younger your pets are when they are introduced, the better they will get along. Younger pets often are not as territorial of their owners or their space as older pets are. However, it is probably a good idea to make sure that at least one pet has some obedience or house training before your introduce a new pet into the household. This will make your life just a little bit easier!
When beginning the introduction process, it is a good idea to not put the pets together right away. Keep the dog and the cat in separate areas of the house, so that they can get used to the smell and the sounds of the other animal. When you move from one animal area in the house to the other animal area, make sure that you let your pets sniff your hands and clothes. This is a great way to give your pets the opportunity to become familiar with the smells of the new dog or cat. You can also let your pets sniff the blankets or toys of the other pet as well, so that they can get used to the new scent.
After a few days, when your pets are used to the smells and sounds of each other, it is time for them to finally meet! However, it is a good idea to leave your dog on a leash, so the cat will feel able to escape at any time if necessary. Also, you should not force the cat and dog to interact with each other right away. Your cat might feel most comfortable just looking at the dog from underneath the bed for a while - and if that's the most comfortable thing, then just let it be that way.
One of the best ways to help your dog and cat live together peaceably is to let them each have their individual space. If you have a cramped apartment or home, then at least make sure that your cat has the personal space that it needs. You should keep your cat litter box, food, scratching post, and toys in a separate area where your dog won't get at them. You also should watch and make sure that your pets don't eat each other's food - not only can this cause a fight, but it also isn't healthy for your pets to eat the wrong type of pet food!
Cats and dogs are both wonderful pets, but they often have strong personalities and territorial feelings. Some dogs and cats may never get along peaceably, but it is definitely worth trying to see if they will get along. Many pets just need the proper introduction, and they will get along just fine. If you follow these introductory steps, then you have a good chance of helping your dog and cat to live together peaceably! If you have further questions about helping your cat and dog to get along, you could ask a pet specialist, trainer, or veterinarian.
Meet gLitter