While many of us are either dog or cat people, there are times when one wants to have both as pets. By then, one of the biggest concerns at the back of your mind is whether the two pets will live peacefully.
That’s a legitimate concern, given that Hollywood depictions have made us believe cats and dogs cannot coexist.
Despite what the television shows and films demonstrate, many cats and dog breeds can live amicably.
Cats thrive better in solitary and are also very territorial with their space and belongings. On the other hand, dogs are pretty playful.
But, if you have realistic expectations, the right strategy, knowledge, and patience, making the introduction between your cat and the dog will actually be a walk in the park. We have highlighted the key steps to take and make a successful introduction.
5 Tips To Help Introduce Cats to Dogs Painlessly
As mentioned in smartcatlovers.org, the most important thing to know is that you cannot force your two beloved pets to get along. However, slow introductions will help you avert aggression and anger from both pets.
Separate The Pets
Keep the new dog away from the cat, preferably in a different room. If your cat is a resident cat, it is best to let them retain the rooms they are familiar with. A baby gate could come in handy for the room the dog will be in. the idea is to get both animals accustomed to each other’s scent.
Feeding of the new dog and your resident feline should be in separate spaces using the baby gate. They can connect the feeding using their different smells.
Once the animals acknowledge calmly that they share the territory, give them treats as rewards.
Swipe Scents
On occasion, change swap the beddings for the two pets. They both must get used to each other’s smell. Alternatively, you can rub a towel on each of the pets and place it beneath their respective food dishes during meals.
Do The Introduction Under Supervision
Once the pets are familiar with one another’s scent, bring your dog along for a stroll. It will probably help them stay calm before introduction time.
You can order the dog to lie down or sit, but ensure they are on a leash. Then, allow the cat to move freely about the space with the dog. If there are no hissing sounds from the cat, you can let them sniff one another. Unfortunately, if the cat runs away, don’t go after it. Just give the introduction some more time.
Ensure that this first introduction occurs in the same level, calm, and quiet space. None of the animals should have superiority over the other. Also, keep the introduction brief and sweet with some treats.
Accord Them Some Privacy Often
Both animals must have a sanctuary around the house where they can enjoy a peaceful time. Anytime the pooch becomes threatening, or your cat loses its patience, they both need to recede to their personal areas to calm down.
Dogs love cats’ food. Plus, dogs can be aggressive if other animals approach them when eating. Keep each of their necessities apart, and ensure the feeding is in separate areas using a baby gate.
Your cat’s litter box also needs to be in a private space away from the regular play spaces. Cats can be pretty touchy with their toilet schedules. When the dog sniffles or messes with the litterbox, your cat will feel infringed.
Clip The Cat’s Claws
Clip the cat’s claws to keep the first introductions safe and very painless for the canine. There could still be a chance the animals will wrangle when you start introducing them. Any serious scratches and bruises the cat inflicts on the dog will lead to a strong distaste. As such, it is important that you trim the claws on the cat’s paws and avoid having a pooch with scratched eyes.
Patience is of utmost importance during the transition process. However, your two beloved friends will grow a strong bond in the long run. The above 5 tips to help introduce cats to dogs painlessly will help you get a big and happy family.
Photo credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/13ky5Ycf0ts
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