Content
- How can you tell if the dog and the cat will get along
- The presentation of both
- Adaptation to the new situation
- What to do if the dog and cat get along badly
Can dogs and cats be friends? Of course, but it will depend on many factors to achieve a harmonious coexistence between them. To do this, you will need to adequately prepare the presentation of the dog and cat, know how they will both adapt to the presence of the other and know what to do if they go wrong.
In this article by PeritoAnimal we explain some step by step. advice for a dog and a cat to get along. Take note of our tips and don't forget to consult a professional if the situation is really serious.
Keep reading and don't forget to comment to share any doubts that may arise during the process or the tricks you used in your case.
How can you tell if the dog and the cat will get along
Dogs and cats are sociable animals by nature, however, if they were separated from the litter before 3 months and did not have one. socialization process appropriate can become solitary animals that reject the presence of other animals.
If the two animals you want to join are already adult specimens, you should take more precautions, however if one or both are puppies you will probably have a better welcome from the pet you have at home. It will depend on each case.
If you suspect that your dog or cat may develop a very negative attitude towards the presence of the other animal, it is highly recommended to resort to a professional such as an ethologist: a veterinarian specialized in animal behavior and behavior.
The presentation of both
Knowing how to introduce a cat to a dog will be critical to getting a good acceptance from the other animal. The ideal will be to keep the cat and the dog isolated in the first days, this is because, usually the pet resident will perceive the appearance of the new animal as a violation of their territory.
Each animal will have its spaces, its bed, feeder, drinking fountain and various toys. It is important to try to respect the utensils of the animal that already resides at home and leave them in the same places as always. Otherwise, it can harm the presentation of both.
For a few days, you should start to get the animals used to each other's scent to familiarize and recognize each other when they see each other for the first time. Remember that animals, dogs and cats, identify themselves through the odor, so exchanging blankets or toys will be a very useful step forward.
After this time we will prepare the house where they will meet for the first time. They should have a "Safety Zone" where the cat can take refuge if it is chased by the dog on the first date. For that you should have cat shelves, multi-floor scratchers or cat houses. It's very important to have these elements if we don't want an incident to happen.
On the first date we can keep the dog locked up if we are not sure of its reaction, however if we prepare the safety zone well there is nothing to worry about. On the first date, you should be very attentive to the attitude of the dog and cat. If it is not positive try to guide the dog with treats to your area again.
Repeat this process occasionally and gradually increase the time until they begin to tolerate and respect each other. There may be grunts and growls at first, it's normal, give them time.
Adaptation to the new situation
as I mentioned earlier, it will be fundamental repeat the meetings of the dog and the boy so that they both get used to each other. At this stage of the process, small mischief may appear, especially on the part of the cat, try to devalue the bad behavior and use positive reinforcement whenever you can to praise the attitudes you like instead of scolding for the attitudes you don't like.
With time, patience and the use of positive education you will at least get them to tolerate each other. Remember that we are talking about a long process in some cases. While in some situations they will become friends quickly, in others it may take months to accept each other. Keep this in mind.
What to do if the dog and cat get along badly
If your dog and cat don't seem to want to get along it will be very important take security measures so that a bad encounter doesn't happen. Never leave your cat and dog together in a room without your supervision and confirm that the cat can take refuge in its "safe zone" whenever it wants.
Show them both the affection they deserve but always equally. Do not over-pamper one of the two and always start with the animal you already have at home. He must always be the first to receive food and caresses but in the same measure as the new pet.
If you observe bad behavior on the part of one of the two don't yell or scold, it is important to redirect the situation positively. Don't forget that animals take their owners as an example. If they see you restless, negative and nervous, they will probably feel this tension and this will reverberate in a worse date. Try to be calm.
However, reward each other whenever you observe good behavior: they sniff each other, respect each other, remain calm... Must positively reinforce everything you like and that fits in a serene and friendly coexistence. Don't forget that reinforcement doesn't always mean giving snacks or treats to our pets. A kind word and even the parties are an excellent reinforcement so that the coexistence of the dog and the cat is more harmonious.