How to get a good coexistence between dogs and cats?

Have you ever heard the expression 'be like the dog and cat'? This famous saying alludes to the bad relationship that these animals apparently have with each other. But this is not always true. Good coexistence between dogs and cats is more than possible. There are many prejudices about it!

If your dog and cat do not get along at all well, or if you are going to adopt a feline or a dog having one of them at home, in this article you will find a series of recommendations to guarantee a good and harmonious coexistence between the two.

Although they are animals that belong to different species, and have very different behaviors, it does not mean that they will always get on badly. Many dogs also get on badly with each other at first, as do many cats, and then they learn to respect each other and, at best, love each other. It all depends on the character of each animal, and above all, on the way in which they have been brought into the home and presented to the rest of the family.

Although the age, sex and character of the animals are some of the most important factors that we must take into account. Cats are usually much more independent, and they do not need to practice so much sport to drain their energy, although they do need basic and daily care. Dogs, on the other hand, are much more sociableThey need to go outside, and establish contact with their owners and with other dogs.

As owners, we must respect the nature of each animal, as well as its character, and not constantly intervene or punish them for attitudes that do not seem positive to us. They, in the vast majority of cases, know how to organize themselves. Our role should be limited to studying their behavior carefully, and intervening only when necessary. We will explain it to you below in more details.

Organize food conveniently

Remember that cats and dogs are instinctively predatory animals, and it is very possible that at lunchtime, they become somewhat more surly to protect what they consider theirs. That is why it is important, especially at the beginning of the coexistence, to feed them in separate areas and ensure that each one eats their own food quietly.

The first day is the most important

In the wild, these animals would never live together, keep in mind that there may be a clash between them, that the cat scratches you or that the dog shows its teeth. Introduce the new member in a calm and natural way so that the cat or dog that was already at home does not see it as an intruder, but as another member of the family.

It is recommended that you put them face to face in a wide space, the dog should preferably remain on a leash, and the cat loose so that it can hide if it feels attacked. If at first, they may behave in a surly way, do not worry, it is absolutely normal, with time they will look at each other and smell, and they will end up being accepted, it may take weeks, or months, but they will. And although they may not create a strong bond, they will most likely end up tolerating each other, which is enough.

Manage the affection

Must have be careful with the amount of affection that is given to one and the other. The affection must be equitable so as not to generate jealousy between them, also, we recommend that you do not be excessively affectionate with either of them, you could generate a lot of attachment, and therefore, also jealousy.

Jealousy can be a very big obstacle for the coexistence between dogs and cats. The relationship between them should not be a failure, in most cases, it ends up being harmonious, you will only need patience, time, and of course, common sense.

Pay attention to territoriality

When you introduce the new member, Keep in mind that the one who was already there may feel suspicious about defending a space that he considers his. Almost always, territoriality is manifested with a grunt, with a claw, or by showing the other animal's teeth, so that it understands that this is its place.

Mark separate areas at first, perhaps it is convenient if the dog and the cat are very aggressive towards each other. As time passes, you will see that they will share everything, from toys to bed. It is not uncommon to see tender friendly relationships between cats and dogs. Give them time to get to know, respect, and eventually love each other.