Contrary to the adage, “fighting like cats and dogs,” most dogs and cats can get along nicely together. Perhaps you’d like to add another pet to your family or maybe you will be caring for a friend’s pet while they’re away.
The first thing is to understand what the “problem” is with dogs and cats. The problem is, cats run so dogs chase them. Or, dogs chase them so cats run. (Which came first, the chicken or the egg?)
Therefore, the best way to introduce dogs and cats is to have the dog on a leash and collar so you can prevent fast movement. Do your best to give the dog some exercise and practice a few obedience commands before entering the cat’s home (or bringing the cat in). This may help to burn off some of the physical and mental energy most dogs have.
Next is to act relaxed. If you act tense and worried, the animals will sense it and may have a more difficult time behaving calmly themselves. Remember, most dogs are not interested in biting cats at all. They’re usually just curious and want to meet the cat, the same way they’re interested in meeting people and other dogs.
Use the dog’s obedience commands to prevent him from running or jumping around. The “sit/stay” command is very helpful in this scenario. Allow the animals to sniff one another, but keep the dog on a short leash so that if an altercation were to arise, you could prevent problems.
If the cat keeps running off and hiding, it can be helpful to have a second human who can hold the cat so they can coexist. Be sure not to hold the cat up high, otherwise the dog may jump because he can’t reach to sniff him.
Once the dog and cat have met, resume normal casual activity with the dog on leash by your side. By having the animals simply coexist without focusing on one another, you send the message… that they can simply coexist and not focus on one another!
The worst thing to do when having dogs and cats in the same household is to keep them separated. If they never see each other they’ll definitely never learn to get along, and if they only see each other rarely, each time will be as exciting as the first.
If you already have a dog and cat living in the same household who have not yet learned to coexist, you can use these techniques to help them live in harmony. If you are nervous, or if there have been problems in the past, the services of a knowledgeable, educated trainer can help.
With some patience and consistency, soon the dog and cat may even be “snuggling like cats and dogs!”
Lori Verni-Fogarsi has been an author, speaker, small business consultant, and Certified Master Trainer for 18+ years. Her novel, “Momnesia,” (contemporary women’s fiction) has been designated a National Indie Excellence Book Awards Finalist, and her nonfiction book, “Everything You Need to Know About House Training Puppies and Adult Dogs,” has been widely acclaimed in its genre. To learn more, please visit www.LoriTheAuthor.com and join Lori on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LoriTheAuthor.
