We have all heard the phrase, fighting like cats and dogs. However, this does not have to be the case with your pets. By following a few simple steps, you can turn your cat and dog into friends, or at the very least, help them tolerate one another.
Raise them Together
The easiest and most effective way to keep your cat and dog from fighting is by raising them together. If you get both as babies, they will grow up knowing and loving one another. This is also true if you already have a dog and bring a kitten into the family. However, you must take caution when introducing your pup to a new family member. Once he grows accustomed to having the kitty around, he will likely become fond of it.
Body Language and Tone of Voice
If you introduce your kitty and puppy later in life or while one is still a baby, your body language and tone of voice will have an effect on how the two react to one another. Animals are very intuitive and can sense when you are stressed or frightened. If you let your nerves get the best of you when you put the two pets together, they will pick up on your stress and act accordingly. Additionally, your tone of voice can either have a calming effect on them or can upset them. Therefore, you should make sure you speak calmly and gently.
Reward Good Behavior
If you have ever taught your dog or cat a trick, you have likely given them treats. When teaching your dog to sit, for example, you reward him with a treat when he obeys. This helps the dog associate sitting with something positive. In the same way, this method can help you teach your cat and dog not to fight. If they are already in the habit of fighting, you will need to place them in a controlled environment and reward them for good behavior.
This process may be easier with two people. One will calmly talk to and pet the dog, while the other does the same with the cat. Both animals should be wearing collars. If they react negatively to one another, pull them away. If they react positively, give them each a treat. Continue this method until they can get along with one another without restraints.