Can Dogs and Cats Get Along?

You may have heard the expression "fighting like cats and dogs" but the truth is that many cats and dogs live together quite amicably in the same home.

According to a study in Israel, about two-thirds of cats and dogs do get along when they share the same home. About one-fourth of cats and dogs who live in the same home were indifferent to each other. And the remaining 10 percent of cats and dogs did not get along well at all.

According to the researchers who performed the study, they theorized that cats and dogs may not get along sometimes because the two species have different body language. But, the researchers noted, cats and dogs seemed to be able to overcome the differences and learn to understand each other.

For best results in shared households, introduce cats and dogs together when both animals are young. It's usually best if the cat or kitten is present in the home first, preferably if the kitten is less than six months old. Dogs do best when meeting cats for the first time when the dog is less than a year old.

If you have a kitten or cat established in your home it will be easier to bring in a young puppy or dog. This will allow the cat, who is often smaller, to establish him or herself with confidence.

For first meetings it's often a good idea to introduce a cat and dog to each other with the two animals in pet carriers. This allows you to have full control of the situation. No one gets hurt. If there is growling or hissing it can be kept at a safe distance. You can quickly remove one of the animals if necessary.

Restrict the new animal to just a room or two for the first few days while the pet that's already in residence begins to get to know the new animal. You may wish to put up baby gates for certain rooms to set up some boundaries. This can allow a cat to have some rooms that are strictly off-limits to the dog or puppy.

Take your time. There should not be any rush to bring the two animals together. They will get to know each other in their own time. You should supervise all of their interactions and be ready to intervene quickly if necessary.

Remember that the original pet can feel all of the same jealousies and resentments about having a new pet in the house as when you bring in any new pet - whether it's a new puppy when you already have a dog, or even when you bring home a new baby. Jealousy is jealousy. So go slowly and offer many reassurances to your older pet.

Even after a dog and cat become friends in your home keep in mind that your dog may not distinguish that other cats are off-limits. He or she may still have the desire to chase cats if given the chance. For some dogs chasing cats can be a predatory instinct so exercise caution. Don't assume that your dog is now cat-friendly to all cats.

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