Can a dog and a cat get along? Of course, yes, but it will depend on many factors to achieve a harmonious coexistence between the two. To do this, you must properly prepare the presentation of the dog and the cat, know how both are going to adapt to the presence of another and know what you are going to do if they do not get along.
In this article on our site we will explain some tips for a dog and a cat to get alongTake note of our tricks and do not forget to consult a professional if your situation is really serious. Read on and don't forget to comment to share any doubts that may arise during the process or the tricks you've used in your case:
How can you tell if the dog and cat are going to get along
Dogs and cats are sociable animals by nature, however, if they have been separated from their litter before 3 months and have not followed a socialization processappropriately may become solitary animals that refuse the presence of other animals.
If the two animals you intend to bring together are already adult specimens, you should take more precautions, however, if one or both are puppies, you will probably have a better reception from the pet that already resides in your home. It will depend on each case.
Especially if you suspect that your dog or cat may develop a very negative attitude in the presence of the other animal, it is highly recommended to go to a professional such as an ethologist: a veterinarian specialized in animal conduct and behavior.
The presentation of both
Knowing how to introduce a cat and a dog will be essential to achieve good acceptance of the other animal. Each pet will have its space and utensils: bed, feeder, sandbox, drinker and various toys. It is important to try to respect the location of the utensils of the pet that already resides in the house so that it does not experience a too sudden change.
We are also going to prepare the room where you will meet for the first time. You should have a " safe zone" where the cat can take refuge if the dog chases it on their first encounter. For this it will be useful to have cat shelves (catwalks), multi-storey scratching posts or cat residences. It is very important to acquire or prepare these elements at home if we do not want an incident to occur.
In the first encounter we can keep the dog on a leash if we are not sure of his reaction, however, if we have prepared the security zone well, we will not have to worry. In this first meeting we will very attentive to the attitude of the dog and the cat. It is normal for both of them to be alert, scared, tense and even show hostile attitudes, such as growls and snorts, it is normal, give them time.
Adaptation to the new situation
At this stage of the process there may be little mischief or behavior that is not sociable. Try to downplay it and use positive reinforcement whenever you can to reinforce the attitudes you like instead of scolding the ones you don't like. Do not forget that if you punish one in front of the other, you can make them associate your presence in a very negative way and make it much more difficult to get a dog and a cat to get along.
On the contrary, the use of treats, caresses or kind words will help both of you relate to the presence of the other in a positive way and nice. You will also encourage the repetition of appropriate behaviors. For example, if you reinforce your cat when he is calm or pleasantly sniffing your dog, you are more likely to repeat it
With time, patience and the use of positive education you will achieve that, at least, they tolerate each other. Remember that we are talking about a long process in some cases. While in certain situations they will make friends quickly, in others they may take months to accept each other. Keep it in mind.
What to do if the dog and cat don't get along?
If your dog and cat don't seem to want to get along, it's very important to take security measures so that a bad encounter doesn't happen. Never leave your cat and dog together in a room without your supervision and check that the cat can take refuge in his "safe zone" whenever he wants
Show both of them the love they deserve but always equally. Do not pamper one of the two excessively and always start with the animal that already resided in the home. He should always be the first to receive food and caresses, but to the same extent as the new pet.
If you notice bad behavior on the part of one of the two don't yell or scold them, it is important to redirect the situation in a positive way. Do not forget that animals take an example from their owners. If they see you restless, negative and nervous, they will probably feel that tension and it will result in a worse encounter. Try to appear calm.
Yes, always reward good behavior: sniffing each other, respecting each other, remaining calm… You must reinforce positively everything you like and that fits in a serene and friendly coexistence. Do not forget that reinforcement does not always mean giving snacks or treats to our pets. An affectionate word and even caresses are an excellent reinforcer so that the coexistence of the dog and the cat is more harmonious.
So far our tips for a dog and a cat to get along, do you have any? Can't get your animals to get along? Feel free to comment and share your experiences!
