People usually say that cats and dogs have always been enemies. But there are many reasons to disagree with that when you see them sometimes cuddling and enjoying each other’s company. However, it’s important to know that these two animals speak different languages, and it can be very hard to make them become friends!
Do you want to know how to make cat and dog get along? Well… keep reading!
First, you need to know that cats are naturally distant and easily scared. This is different from dogs, who are social and territorial, wanting to be the kings of the jungle. Indifference doesn’t mean they can’t live in the same place; they need your help to get along. Luckily for you, this article will help your cat and dog live together in harmony.
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Table of Contents
Focus more on personality than breed.
Many people believe that certain breeds of dogs or cats will never get along with each other, no matter what you do. However, we should not let their background prevent us from recognizing their true personality. Even though some dogs may be challenging to bond with, it’s essential to learn about which dog breeds get along best with cats to avoid difficulties in your home.
Their energy level and temperament determine their bond. So, if you have an aggressive dog wanting to mark its territory, you should know that it’s not a suitable breed for living with cats. Additionally, an older dog may prefer to keep its distance from kittens.
From this, you can conclude that if your pet’s personality doesn’t match the other’s, you don’t have to force it. All you need to do is have an emergency plan to ensure that the two stay separated for as long as necessary.
Train Your Dog
If you want your dog to bond with the cat, you need to teach him how to control his impulses. You can learn this through observation.
For example, if you see him jumping for a fallen piece of bread or reacting to something passing by, these are red flags that he might behave the same way when you introduce a cat.
Teach him to respond to commands like “Come,” “Sit,” “Stay,” and many others. It’s best to teach him by keeping him on a leash during each encounter. Every minute your dog spends with the cat should be rewarded with treats to motivate him.
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Let the Cat and Dog Follow Their Noses
Have you ever seen a newborn baby cry and then become completely quiet when held by its mother? The science behind it is that they can smell their mother even with their eyes closed. People take advantage of this by using the mother’s dirty T-shirts to comfort the baby when they stay with someone else. This works well because they assume that the smell represents their mother.
That’s exactly what you should do if you want your dog to get along with your kitten.
Let them sniff each other’s toys and bedding before they come into physical contact. This way, you satisfy their curiosity and prevent potential conflicts when they meet.
Train Your Dog Before Meeting the Cat
Before getting the two acquainted, take your dog for a long walk, engage him in play, and involve him in an energetic game. Playing ensures that the dog has used up all his energy, reducing the likelihood of him chasing the cat when they meet. In the end, they will have a better chance of building a bond.
Consider Their Age
If possible, get a puppy for your cat. Mature animals tend to intimidate younger ones, so don’t be surprised if your adult cat swats your puppy’s face with claws to chase them away. Let your puppy grow up alongside a kitten.
It’s best if your cat and puppy grow up in a positive and loving environment; then, they’ll become friends.
Make sure all their things like food, bed, and litter box are in the same room with them.
Let your dog look at the cat through the door, then make your dog focus on something else like a toy or a sound.
If your dog can pay attention to others, say a good job. Let your dog see the cat a few times a day, but keep it short.
It might help to give each pet food on both sides of a closed door at the same time so they know each other’s smell. You can also switch their beds.
If you do this for a long time, like hours, days, weeks, or months, depending on the dog, your dog should stop being so interested in the cat and get used to having the cat around.
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My final thoughts: How to make cat and dog get along
Cats and dogs can be friends if we do things right. Understanding their differences, teaching them, thinking about their age, and letting them do what comes naturally can help create a positive relationship. We don’t have to make them friends based on their type; we just need to be patient and introduce them slowly. By making a happy place and doing things step by step, we can help our cat and dog be good friends and live together happily.
References: WikiHow, Mentalflos