Doris Andrade, feline ethologist and member of the Guatemalan Feline Association, and Rosario Barrios, cat and dog trainer, from Cool Dog, provide these Five recommendations so that harmony reigns between felines and dogs:
1. Gradual presentations
The most common mistake is leaving both species in the same room and waiting to “see what happens,” which results in a traumatized cat and an overexcited dog. The key is initial isolation and odor exchange.
As a first step, keep the newcomer in his room with all needs covered for the first few days. lThen, encourage the exchange of aromas; For example, rubbing the cat with a blanket and leaving it near the dog’s food and vice versa, so that they associate each other’s smell with something positive.
Finally, facilitate controlled eye contact, by using a physical barrier between them such as a screen door or baby gate, so that they can observe each other, without reaching physical contact. If the dog barks or gets upset, distract him with a toy. If the cat hisses, slowly pet it in a safe area – head, cheeks or under the chin – or let it hide. Reward their calmness with their favorite snacks. If the dog or cat does not want to approach, do not force it.
2. Respect territoriality and heights
Dogs are ground and pack animals; cats, three-dimensional and territorial. For the latter to feel safe in the presence of a dog, they need escape routes and exclusive areas. Therefore, it is recommended to install shelves, scratchers and keep the tops of furniture clear. If the cat knows that it can flee upwards, where the dog cannot reach it, its anxiety levels will decrease significantly. It is necessary to provide recreational enrichment.
It is essential not to feed them together at first, since food is the number one trigger for fights. Place the feline’s dish on an elevated surface, to which the dog does not have access.
On the other hand, dogs have the habit of “exploring” the sandbox of cats. This terribly stresses the feline, who could begin to relieve herself outside of her. Protect it with a barrier, so that only the cat can reach it.
Also read: Six tips for dogs and cats to get along well
3. Control the dog’s impulses
Generally, the success of coexistence depends 80% on the control of the dog, which has a natural chase instinct; If the cat runs, the dog will run after it, so it must learn that the feline is not a toy.
Before introducing them, make sure the dog masters basic commands such as “stay,” “sit,” or “release.” During the first barrier-free interactions, keep the dog on a short leash. If the cat ignores the cat, reward it.
4. energy waste
A dog bored and full of pent-up energy is a nightmare for a cat just looking to sleep. Make sure the dog is exercise properly and mentally stimulate it daily, with long walks, sniffing games or interactive toys, before socializing with the feline, so that it does not represent a threat to it.
5. Be patient in socialization
Each animal has its own rhythm. Some will adapt in a week, while others They will need months to tolerate each other’s presence. Never force interaction; Forcing them to be together will only generate resentment, fear and stress. With patience, constant supervision and positive reinforcement, peaceful coexistence will be a reality. hWe must let the relationship flow, put aside the humanization of animals and respect the natural behaviors and forms of expression of each one. Never leave them alone without adult supervision.
When the presentation is done in an appropriate manner, it does not generate stress in them, especially in cats. If stress levels are high, apply pheromones to relax them. Over time, if they do not have a good relationship, the goal is for them to tolerate each other’s presence.