It is often said that the dog and the cat they are natural enemies. However, this is nothing more than a false belief that can lead us to make serious mistakes such as keeping our pets separate just because they belong to different species. The reality is that they can become inseparable friends, although for this we have to follow a series of tips like the ones shown below.
To begin with, each animal needs your basic space. We are talking about specific areas for sleeping, eating, playing, defecating, etc., which should not be altered with the arrival of a new pet. Otherwise, one or the other could feel that their territory is invaded, which would lead to conflicts. It is essential that both keep their objects in the same place where they usually are, although over time they can share them.
It is also essential to let both the dog and the cat get used to their respective smells and associate it with something positive. To achieve this we can first caress one and then the other, so that we "impregnate" them with their own aromas, with which they will become increasingly familiar with each other.
Another key to achieving a good coexistence is to distribute our doses of affection equally, in order to avoid the appearance of jealousy. Must pay the same attention, offering caresses and games to both. Neglecting one in favor of the other will only make them see their territory threatened and react with behavior problems.
If what we want is to welcome an animal at home when we already have another, we must follow some guidelines. For example, the first time we meet them we have to do it in a controlled way, under our supervision, and letting the dog sniff the cat from a distance. For this, there is nothing better than holding the dog on a leash and rewarding it when it shows a relaxed and positive attitude.
These are just some basic tips that we can follow during the adaptation process of these animals, but sometimes they are not enough. Sometimes one of the two manifests a strong fear or aggressiveness, and the intervention of a specialist in canine or feline behavior to solve the problem. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a professional at the slightest sign of conflict on the part of one of our two pets.