Mary Allen
There is a proverb! This reads “They are like dogs and cats!”
The meaning behind it is, they are bitter enemies. Aside from the question of why we borrow so much from the animal world to express our emotions and opinions.
Are dogs and cats natural enemies? What do you have to consider if you want to keep both breeds as pets?
Here are the 4 most important points for a happy life together!
Get used to each other from an early age
It’s not about either-or, nowhere in life! It’s always about togetherness, also when keeping dogs and cats at the same time and countless families and farms live it every day!
It is perfect for future cohabitation if the animals move into your family at about the same age and at the same time.
The playful kitten can then conquer your heart and their place on the sofa together with the funny and lively puppy.
Trust is formed in childhood and often lasts for a lifetime. This also applies to our pets. The sooner they can get to know each other, the better they will understand and accept each other’s peculiarities!
The hunting instinct
Some dog breeds can have a strong hunting instinct, especially breeds bred as hunting dogs.
The hunting instinct is common to dogs, to cats, or why did you think that the birds would suddenly avoid their winter feeding ground?
So while your cat watches the movement of the birds, your dog lies in wait, guarding every little twitch of your house tiger.
Reward and praise can be a key to successful parenting. Praise your cat for not disturbing the birds when they are collecting food, and your dog for letting the cat snooze peacefully on the windowsill.
Treats for both breeds of pets support your intent and can distract from the hunt. Cuddles on your part as well!
Get used to each other slowly
Dogs and cats have sensitive noses and can react extremely disturbed to new smells. Smells that the newcomer brings into the house or apartment.
Slow acclimatization can also work by placing the basket or blanket of your new pet, whether it’s a dog or a cat, in your dwelling at an early stage.
When the new roommate finally arrives, the smell is no longer alien. A blanket that has been torn apart by cat claws is easy to replace!
You can gradually get used to two animals of different ages. Older dogs or cats often show much more patience with young animals of the other breed than do young animals or middle-aged animals.
In addition, a puppy or a kitten can hide if the longer living here should show its claws or teeth. Treats and stroking for the pet with a longer presence also help to overcome the first hurdles here!
No matter how well your house tiger gets along with your four-legged fur bundle, love ends when you eat!
Separate the feeding places and, if necessary, the times. Jealousy about food can set in even between the best of friends, even if they take your place on the couch together afterwards!
Last but not least!
Contrary to the opinion that dogs could give in to their hunting instinct and thus make life more difficult for cats, it is often our independent and self-confident cats that cause the dog sorrowful hours!
Dogs are very attached to their human or the entire family. Cats, on the other hand, like to go their own way. Of course, they also come and get their cuddles, but they decide when they feel like it.
Your dog will always respond happily to your attention!