Fighting like cats and dogs
There’s a well-known expression – ‘to fight like cats and dogs’, which means to constantly argue. However, dogs and cats can be great friends. These tips from veterinarian Dr Katrina Warren will help you to enjoy a harmonious multi-species household.
Acquire a puppy and kitten at the same time
Ideally, you should acquire your dog and cat at the same time when they are both young. This will help them to get used to each other at a time when both can establish regular routines and socialise with each other. If it’s not possible to get your pets at the same time, then research suggests that you are more likely to be successful introducing a dog to a household where a cat is the first occupant, rather than introducing a cat into a household that already has a dog.
Gradual introductions
If you have an existing pet, it’s best to introduce the new pet very gradually and under supervision. A gentle introduction is far safer than a rushed one and will hopefully result in your pets becoming good friends. When you first bring home your new pet, put them in a room behind a closed door so that your other pet can get to know the new arrival ‘through the door’ with minimal confrontation. This will enable the pets to discover each other via smell and hearing, so when you introduce them face-to-face they will already be familiar with each other.