With more than 17% of all households in the USA owning both a dog and a cat according to the ASPCA, it is safe to say that the age-old saying of “fight like cats and dogs” (implying that canines and felines are natural enemies) has been debunked. Despite their inherent differences, cats and dogs also have a lot in common. It is due to these similarities, which includes frequent grooming and sniffing, that cats and dogs living in the same household are more than capable of forming strong bonds, especially when introduced to each other as youngsters. Through intense observation and a bit of experimentation with regards to pushing each other’s boundaries, you may find your pets drinking from each other’s bowls, playing together & even sharing a bed.
Promoting domestic harmony between your cat and dog
While many cats and dogs will figure each other out and live in harmony without your interference, others are more stubborn and might require a little coaxing. It is important to take both animals’ personalities into account: an older, timid cat might not, for example, get on particularly well with an overly-energetic, bouncing puppy. If you find that your animals have a distinct personality clash it might be best to set up your household in such a way to allow each to have their own private space.