Letting your dog and cat live together: how to create a good bond
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The expression “fighting like cats and dogs” suggests that these two popular pets are natural enemies. In reality, dogs and cats can live together perfectly well – even become friends – as long as their introduction and daily interaction is carefully and patiently managed. In this blog, you will read all about how to properly introduce a dog and cat to each other, what the biggest pitfalls are and what steps you can take to create a harmonious relationship between the two animals.
Differences in behavior
Before bringing a dog and a cat together, it is good to understand the basics of their behavior . Dogs are generally social, curious and seek contact, also with people and other animals. Cats, on the other hand, are naturally solitary and attach great value to their territory. An unprepared meeting can cause stress and anxiety, especially for the cat.
Dogs sometimes see a running cat as prey, and cats see a pushy dog as a threat. However, these instincts can be overcome with training, patience, and proper guidance.
Step 1: Consider Character and Background
Not every dog or cat is suited to live with another animal. Consider:
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Dog with a strong hunting instinct (e.g. terriers or greyhounds): they may have difficulty staying calm around a cat.
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Cat without experience with dogs (e.g. shelter cats): may react anxiously or aggressively.
Do you already have a pet and want to get another? Consider choosing a dog or cat that has lived with the other species before. Temperament is also important. A calm, tolerant dog and a confident cat are often the best combination.
Step 2: The preparation
Good preparation prevents stress. Make sure:
1. Safe zones for the cat
A cat should always be able to retreat. Think about:
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A room where the dog is not allowed
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Furniture or climbing poles where the cat can sit high
2. Put the dog on a leash during the first meetings
Use a leash or harness to keep the dog under control during the introduction.
3. Separate dining and sleeping areas
Let the cat and dog eat and sleep separately at first. This prevents territorial conflicts.
Step 3: The first meeting
The first meeting is crucial. Follow these steps:
1. Let them get used to each other's scent
Rub a cloth over the dog and place it near the cat (and vice versa). This way they can get to know each other without direct contact.
2. Meet each other remotely
Have the dog sit quietly and on a leash. Bring the cat into the room (preferably in a carrier) and observe their reactions. Reward calm behavior in both animals.
3. Repeat and build
Let them see each other more often, closer each time, but keep it short and positive. Don't force contact. If it goes well, the cat can walk around freely while the dog is still on a leash.
Step 4: Supporting coexistence
If the first meetings go smoothly, you can expand the contact:
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Have the dog sit or lie down on command when the cat walks by. Reward him for calm behavior.
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Make sure the cat always has a way out.
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Prevent the dog from chasing the cat. This may be play behavior, but the cat experiences it as threatening.
Important:
Don't leave them alone together until you are 100% sure they trust and respect each other. This can take weeks to months.
Common Problems (and Solutions)
1. Dog keeps chasing cat
Solution: Work on controlling impulses. Teach the dog the command “leave it” or “look at me” with rewards. Consider help from a dog behaviorist.
2. Cat attacks dog
Solution: Give the cat a safe place, increase her self-confidence through play and rest. Do not punish her; aggression often comes from fear.
3. Eating becomes a battle
Solution: Feed both animals in separate places and at separate times, especially in the first few months.
Positive signals
You know things are going well when:
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The dog no longer jumps up or barks when the cat comes in
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The cat no longer runs away or hisses when it sees the dog
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They ignore each other or are calmly together in the same room
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They accept each other's scent and do not see each other's behavior as a threat
Sometimes they even sleep next to each other, play together or wash each other – then this is real friendship.
Additional tips
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Be consistent: Reward good behavior, ignore unwanted behavior.
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Provide sufficient distraction: Give your dog sufficient exercise and your cat sufficient enrichment.
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Use a stair gate: This helps to demarcate spaces.
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Keep observing: Even if things seem to be going well, stay alert for signs of stress.
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Patience is essential: Some animals take weeks or months to get used to each other.
When to call for help?
If, despite your best efforts, the relationship between cat and dog remains tense, or there is aggression, it is wise to call in an animal behavior therapist. They can observe the situation and make a customized plan.
Conclusion
A dog and a cat do not have to be natural enemies. With patience, good guidance and respect for each other's boundaries, these animals can live together perfectly. Sometimes they even become inseparable friends. The key to success lies in a calm introduction, sufficient safe zones and positive guidance of desired behavior.
Whether you’re introducing a new puppy to your cat, or introducing a cat to a household with a dog, give it time, give it attention, and give it love – and you’ll have a great chance of a peaceful (and even cozy!) home full of wagging tails and purring whiskers.