The old saying ‘fighting like cats and dogs’ is rooted in fact. Cats and dogs are two very different species, each having a unique place in their relationship with mankind.
Archaeological evidence states that dogs evolved in the company of man as a social species. They shared the same habitat and hunted the same prey. Whether man adopted orphaned wolf cubs or wild dogs, both chose to stay close to human settlements to take advantage of the leftovers of the hunt.
Dogs are very active and happy, they’re also jumpy at all times. Cats on the other hand are calmer and fear new people and things. They sleep 16-18 hours a day and like not to be meddled with.
The most important step is to match their traits before adoption. If they grow up together, they befriend each other. A playful dog and a playful cat or a tolerant one — will always be calm. Any new puppy or kitten would be afraid to play with the other.
Modern dogs are the result of their ancestors’ ability to accept food and eat in the presence of humans. The close ties between people and their dogs is the result of the similarities between them. There are some imperative steps that should be taken for your pets to get along with each other.
Most people have multiple pet households and the common combinations include dogs and cats. Dogs chase cats and frighten them and the rivalry never ends. The best way to calm the storm between both of them is training. A personal trainer must teach your dog to be patient and obedient. Behavioural training for cats is a must, too.
If your pets are new to each other’s company, you need to confine them to different rooms. Slowly, bring one in the other’s room and encourage them to approach each other. You can train them by rewarding them with toys and treats every time they listen to you!
Like humans, animals realise when you’re being more affectionate towards the other. This directs them to negative behaviours like rough play and barking. It’s very important to be equally affectionate towards your cat and dog to maintain a stable relationship between them.
The initial steps are tough, but once your dog and cat approach each other, they’re going to be friends forever.
