Dogs And Cats: Friendship Impossible?

“They behave like cat and dog”. This famous phrase is based on the belief that cats and dogs don’t get along. However, we see more and more houses where dogs live with cats, or even little dogs that greet the kittens affectionately when they go out for a walk.

So is it really an impossible friendship? Everything seems to indicate no. Let’s analyze the origins of this idea and how much truth is hidden in it.

Where does the expression “like cat and dog” come from?

Often you see dogs chasing cats or cats blowing dogs. When they live together, however, the situation is certainly different. Because?

Both are territorial animals. In other words, they need their own territory and will defend it tooth and nail, you couldn’t say otherwise. So when a cat or dog sees a member of another species approaching, it feels threatened and responds to the threat with an attack.

This would happen with any other animal. In fact, in fact, the phrase “like cat and dog” is a way of generalizing the reaction that any of these animals would have in the face of the threat of losing its territory.

Why does the situation change when they live together?

As we said before, when cats and dogs live together, they end up getting along well. Even when it might seem impossible.

It is interesting that even dogs that live with cats, when they go out on the street, if they see a cat they start running after it looking for some fun. The fact is, animals don’t mind appearances. When they live with other animals, they become peers and are able to see them simply as added members of the pack.

How can you make sure your pets don’t behave like “cat and dog”?

If you have cats and want a dog or vice versa, or maybe you have both but can’t get them to get along, rest assured, these tips will help you.

• Introduce them gradually. Avoid coming home with your new pet imagining that everything will be fine, as it may not be. It is better that you enter with the animal in your arms and that, in a closed room, gradually bring it closer to the animal that already lives with you. If all goes well, you can leave it on the ground and allow them to get to know each other; you can even try to leave them alone. Otherwise, you will have to have more patience and keep them away for the moment.

• They must both have their own space. It is practical to have only one food bowl and one drinking bowl, but it is not a great choice. Each animal must think that it is special to you and must have its place and its space, to avoid resentment.
• Two beds. The same happens with the place to sleep. Everyone will need to have their own bed or blanket in a specific place. Sure you’ll want to fill your phone with snuggling dog and cat photos, but you’ll have to let some time pass for that.

It is very important not to force the situation, they will gradually get closer. They are likely to end up eating or sleeping together, but leave them free to do so when they decide.

As you can see, friendship between cats and dogs is not impossible. However, they will also need your help to get along well.