You may think that dogs and cats are sworn enemies, but they can also be best friends. Dogs and cats have coexisted with humans for a long time, but they view the world very differently. To foster their friendship, you need to know what drives them, and give them a home that is cozy and secure, to make them bond with each other.
Find out how to turn your dog and cat from rivals to roomies in this guide. You’ll learn how to introduce, train, settle, and handle your furry friends.
How to Make Your Dog and Cat Friends in 5 Easy Steps
Do you love dogs and cats, but they don’t love each other? Don’t worry, just follow this guide and watch the magic happen. (Or at least avoid a bloodbath.)
Prepare your home
- Give your dog and cat their own spaces where they can relax and hide. (Especially the cat. Cats love hiding.)
- Make sure they have enough food, water, toys, and litter boxes. (No one likes to share their stuff. Especially the cat. Cats are greedy.
- Use calming products, such as pheromones (sprays, diffusers, collars, or wipes), to reduce their stress and anxiety. (Or just play some soothing music.)
Introduce them gradually
- Start by letting them smell each other’s scents through a closed door. (This is like online dating for pets. They can get to know each other without seeing each other.)
- Then, like a video chat, let them see each other through a gate or a screen.
- Finally, let them meet face-to-face, but keep them on a leash or in a carrier.
- Reward them with treats and praise for being calm and friendly. (They will love you for it.)
Supervise them and intervene if necessary
- Don’t leave them alone until you are sure they are comfortable in each other’s presence. You don’t want to come back to a disaster scene. Or worse, a missing pet!
- Watch for signs of aggression, such as growling, hissing, or chasing, as these are signs of trouble.
- If they start to fight, separate them and try again later.
- Don’t force them to interact, they aren’t robots. Let them set their own pace.
Be patient and consistent
- Rome wasn’t built in a day. Introducing a dog and a cat is not a one-time event, but a process that takes time and patience.
- Don’t expect them to be best buddies right away, but hope for a peaceful coexistence.
- Practice makes perfect! Repeat the steps as needed until they are comfortable with each other.
Enjoy their friendship
- Celebrate their progress and achievements.
- They will make you smile and laugh. Capture their cute and funny moments and maybe go viral on social media!
- Love them both equally.
The Secrets to Successful Dog and Cat Relationships
Dogs and cats may seem like an unlikely pair, but with some guidance and patience, they can become the ultimate duo! Here are some simple tips to help you:
Choose compatible breeds
Some dogs are more cat-friendly than others. For instance, golden retrievers, beagles, and pugs are known to be tolerant of cats. On the other hand, terriers, hounds, and herding dogs are more likely to chase and hunt cats. It would help to do some research before you adopt a dog or a cat to find the best match for your home.
Spay or neuter your pets
This will reduce their aggression and territorial behavior, and make them more calm and friendly. It will also prevent unwanted pregnancies and litters.
Celebrate their differences
Dogs and cats have different personalities, needs, and preferences. Don’t expect them to act the same or like the same things. Appreciate their unique traits and quirks, and let them express themselves in their own ways.
Read or watch real life stories
There are many inspiring and heartwarming stories of dogs and cats living together in harmony. For example, you can read about the Mumbai family that has 28 dogs and 9 cats! Or watch videos of cats and dogs playing, cuddling, and grooming each other on YouTube. These stories will show you that dogs and cats can be best friends if given a chance.
Having both dogs and cats as pets can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it also requires patience, understanding, and love. The key is to appreciate their differences and celebrate their similarities, and to provide them with a safe and comfortable environment where they can thrive. By doing so, you will not only create a harmonious home for your furry friends, but also for yourself.
