Dogs
How to Keep Dogs and Cats From Fighting
Introduction
"Fighting like cats and dogs" is an expression for a reason. But, as we all know, there are exceptions to every rule. For instance, there are some cats and dogs that co-exist better with each other than their own species, because they feel less territorial. Then, there are the dogs that will never get along, such as hunting dogs and terriers
that have an instinct to chase and attack cats, and likewise, certain kinds of cats that are more aggressive. It’s just something you’ll have to find out for yourself, but in a safe and proper way. Here are some safe and proper ways to try to get your dog and cat to love one another--or at least not fight like cats and dogs.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step One
Bring a towel or blanket home with the scent of the new pet to get your other pet used to it before bringing the new pet home. You might want to place it under your current pet’s food bowl.
Step Two
Keep the cat and dog in separate areas at first so that they can get used to the scent and sounds of each other. When you go from one pet’s area to another’s, let them sniff your hands and clothing.
Step Three
Place your dog’s food bowl outside of the cat’s room so that the dog will associate the cat with something positive (Of course, make sure it's good food!)
Step Four
Once the new pet is used to his surroundings, let the pets trade areas long enough for the new pet to explore the other pet’s territory.
Step Five
Keep your dog on a leash when you first introduce her to the cat. Do not hold the cat in your arms. Frightened cats may scratch. Have one person handle each pet.
Step Six
Repeat the process over a few days and gradually let the pets get closer to each other. Praise the dog with a treat for calm behavior. When you feel the time is right for the dog to be unrestrained, leave the leash on just in case you need to pull him back.
Step Seven
Give the cat her own safe area to escape to when she needs it and keep her food bowl and litter box in a separate area from the dog. It might be a good idea to keep it permanently blocked from the dog by a baby gate or door.
Tips & Warnings
* If adopting a new cat into a household with a dog, find out if the cat has lived with dogs before and vice versa.
* It’s usually safer to introduce a cat to a one-dog household. With two dogs, the pack instinct may take over.
* Spend equal time with both pets, so the old pet doesn’t get jealous. This is more likely with a dog.
* The best time to socialize dogs and cats together is when they're puppies and kittens.
* Never leave your dog and cat alone unsupervised until you’re sure they will get along. Allow several weeks to be safe.
* Don't leave your cat and dog unsupervised when they are outside together for the first time. Dogs may tolerate cats indoors, but those with a hunting instinct might decide to chase the cat once they get outdoors.
"Fighting like cats and dogs" is an expression for a reason. But, as we all know, there are exceptions to every rule. For instance, there are some cats and dogs that co-exist better with each other than their own species, because they feel less territorial. Then, there are the dogs that will never get along, such as hunting dogs and terriers
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step One
Bring a towel or blanket home with the scent of the new pet to get your other pet used to it before bringing the new pet home. You might want to place it under your current pet’s food bowl.
Step Two
Keep the cat and dog in separate areas at first so that they can get used to the scent and sounds of each other. When you go from one pet’s area to another’s, let them sniff your hands and clothing.
Step Three
Place your dog’s food bowl outside of the cat’s room so that the dog will associate the cat with something positive (Of course, make sure it's good food!)
Step Four
Once the new pet is used to his surroundings, let the pets trade areas long enough for the new pet to explore the other pet’s territory.
Step Five
Keep your dog on a leash when you first introduce her to the cat. Do not hold the cat in your arms. Frightened cats may scratch. Have one person handle each pet.
Step Six
Repeat the process over a few days and gradually let the pets get closer to each other. Praise the dog with a treat for calm behavior. When you feel the time is right for the dog to be unrestrained, leave the leash on just in case you need to pull him back.
Step Seven
Give the cat her own safe area to escape to when she needs it and keep her food bowl and litter box in a separate area from the dog. It might be a good idea to keep it permanently blocked from the dog by a baby gate or door.
Tips & Warnings
* If adopting a new cat into a household with a dog, find out if the cat has lived with dogs before and vice versa.
* It’s usually safer to introduce a cat to a one-dog household. With two dogs, the pack instinct may take over.
* Spend equal time with both pets, so the old pet doesn’t get jealous. This is more likely with a dog.
* The best time to socialize dogs and cats together is when they're puppies and kittens.
* Never leave your dog and cat alone unsupervised until you’re sure they will get along. Allow several weeks to be safe.
* Don't leave your cat and dog unsupervised when they are outside together for the first time. Dogs may tolerate cats indoors, but those with a hunting instinct might decide to chase the cat once they get outdoors.
Source: eHow