Effective techniques for getting dogs and cats to live together

Bringing a dog and cat together is possible in most cases, but it must be done gradually and methodically: it's not so much a question of "enemy instinct" as it is about managing space and emotions. The most important point is don't force them to be together right awayThe first meetings should be controlled and brief. Ideally, you start with a separation phase: different rooms, each with food, water and litter box/bed, so they both get used to each other's smells without stress.

Despite this, dogs and cats can also become excellent allies, living together peacefully until they become inseparable. Here are some helpful tips:

• First of all, if you want to adopt them both at the same time, choose two puppies. There are many abandoned kittens in shelters or cat colonies, just waiting for your affection. Don't force the two pets to get to know each other, but respect their pace, while trying to keep the situation under control. You'll see that little by little, the dog will get used to the kitten's presence, treating it first as a playmate and then as a member of the family.
• Despite everything, you may still witness scenes where the dog chases the cat, and the cat hisses or scratches it. Rather than mutual hatred, these are minor arguments, perhaps caused by food disputes or mutual jealousy.
• If you notice that your dog and cat are frequently chasing each other, to prevent the chased animal from becoming stressed and the situation from escalating, seek advice from a veterinary behaviorist.
• In any case, a useful tip is to always ensure that the cat has a corner of the house where he can retreat, a space just for him where the dog can't reach him: for example, a basket placed on a shelf.
• To avoid any potential food-related conflicts, avoid feeding them at the same time, and above all, place the cat's bowl of pâté or kibble a certain distance from the dog's: the latter loves cat food because it's much tastier and saltier, but also potentially harmful. Dogs and cats should follow different diets, especially because if the dog often eats the same food, croquettes The cat will eventually no longer want its own. Also remember that, while the cat eats several times throughout the day, alternating between small and frequent meals, the dog eats its entire ration immediately. Reward both of them throughout the day with cuddles and treats or cookies suitable for them, will allow you to avoid jealousies and encourage coexistence in the home.
• Never force contact: sympathy must mature gradually and on their own initiative.
• Instead, to get them used to each other's smells, you can exchange toys and blankets.

How long does it take to get used to being together?

Usually, a few days are enough for the situation to return to normal, also because the cat generally quickly learns to go around the dog, especially if it is chased, and to assert itself in the house.

• 3–7 days: dog and cat they begin to tolerate each other (they observe each other without reacting too much)
• 2–4 weeks: they coexist without evident tensions
• 1–3 months (or more): a true habit of living together and a possible friendship are born.

Obviously, puppies are much more sociable, which is why it's always best to start bringing them together when both the dog and the cat are young.

Signs that your dog and cat don't get along

• When the dog stiffens and begins to stare. In this case, it is appropriate to intervene, as it is a predatory behavior.
• When a cat's ears are back and its tail is wagging slowly, it means it's very worried.
• When the dog always tries to chase
• When the cat stays hidden for days
• When growling is heard frequently and the postures of both animals are rigid.

Read also:

• How to adopt a dog
• How does a dog say he doesn't want to be disturbed?
• Why doesn't the cat purr?