Many people are sure that a cat and a dog are sworn enemies who cannot live peacefully in the same apartment. But this is not entirely true.
The whole point is that each pet has its own behavior pattern.
For example, dogs are more active and energetic, while cats like to keep their distance and have boundaries of personal space.
Therefore, it is important to consider these rules if you decide to have a cat and a dog in your home. In addition, pets can be friends.
All you need is to be patient and put in some effort.
How to improve the relationship between a cat and a dog
Before bringing a new pet into the house, you need to allocate a separate space for it. It is advisable to provide for the animals' bowls to be at different levels.
If possible, take one pet's things and place them next to the other. This will help them get used to each other's smell.
When you bring a carrier with a new four-legged friend, the older pet should be allowed to sniff it before opening it.
If sniffing in the carrier was successful, you can gently let the kitten or puppy sniff it to show it from your hands.
As soon as the cat and dog are in the same open space, it is necessary to give them equal attention so that jealousy does not appear. For example, when you pet the cat, you can simultaneously call the dog and treat it with something.
Next, you need to remember that the tone of voice is important in the process of raising animals. If a dog barks at a cat or tries to offend him, then you should respond with a stern tone. But if the pets play with each other, sit peacefully next to each other, then you need to praise them, stroke them or reward them with a treat.
Earlier we talked about whether pets can feel love.