Can Cats And Dogs Co-Exist Peacefully?

Genetics

Genetically, there are reasons for cats and dogs to dislike each other.  By nature, dogs are predators that tend to chase things that move quickly and that are smaller than them.  Of course, cats fit this description, making them the perfect play toy for dogs wanting to utilize their predatory skills. 

Cats, who are also predatory, can also exhibit stalking behaviors toward dogs; despite the fact the dog is usually much bigger.  In addition, cats will defend themselves, so thus begins the rivalry.

Environmental Influence

Genetics and instinct aren’t the only reason some cats and dogs don’t get along. An animal learns who its friends and enemies are in the first 2 to 3 months of its life. Therefore, it is best to start early, as a kitten raised with dogs will not think much of the dog. Similarly, a puppy raised with cats will probably get along better with cats. Since cats tend to be more territorial than dogs, it’s often easier to raise a new kitten in a household with dogs rather than the other way around. However, a highly predatory dog will make it very difficult to introduce a kitten into your household.

Training Pets To Live In Peace And Harmony

Teaching cats and dogs that don’t get along with each other to live together can be a somewhat difficult task, but it is possible.  The best way to accomplish this is to allow the animals to spend time together while a human chaperone is present.  The more time animals spend with one another, the more tolerant they become of the other.  In fact, this can often lead to a very affectionate relationship.  Puppies and kittens that are raised together have the best chance of developing a positive relationship.

If a dog has been particularly cruel to cats in the past, however, it is probably not a good idea to try to get the two species to co-exist.  Even if the dog doesn’t manage to get the cat, it will most likely make the cat’s life difficult by continually chasing after it.  Similarly, a puppy might need to be protected from a particularly territorial or mean cat.

Dogs can also be trained to leave cats alone, just as they can be trained to fetch, sit or stand still.  For a pet owner who has the time and patience, the dog can be leashed with a training collar.  Another person can bring the cat increasingly closer to the dog.  If the dog sits still it, should be praised.  If it attempts to lunge after the cat, the leash should be pulled and the dog should be told “No.  Leave it!”  Some dogs learn quickly while others take a little longer.

Another approach for training the dog can also be utilized.  This approach uses positive association.  Each time the dog is in the same room as the cat, it is provided with extra attention and treats.  Soon, the dog realizes having the cat in the room is a good thing because it gets something good out of it.  In this way, it positively associates the cat with things that it desires – affection and tasty treats!

Feeding Time

It is best to have separate feeding stations for dogs. Since most animals are very protective of their food, even cats and dogs that normally get along might start fighting during mealtime. In addition to naturally being protective of their food, animals are curious by nature and so want to find out what food the other animal is enjoying.

If you don’t want the dog to eat the cat’s food, place it in a high, hard to reach area and where the cat can still comfortably reach and eat it. For the most part, cats don’t try to eat dog food, however, if you see this happening, one way to discourage this is by feeding them at the same time, but in different places.

Since cats and dogs require different nutrients to keep them healthy, it is important to keep their food separate. Not only will your animals be healthy, they will live in harmony.