Cats see dogs as companions and sometimes rivals. Both cats and dogs are household pets that have lived with humans since time immemorial. The general notion is: Cats see dogs as their rivals. However, in reality, many pet owners acknowledge that both pets have a great relationship with each other. Where both pets exist in the same household, they relate like they are true buddies.
Further Reading: “Do Cats Know They Are Cute?“
Table of Contents
How Do Cats Perceive Dogs?
Both cats and dogs are predatory carnivores. They are both mammals, but they belong to different families. They have lived together as pets in many households across the globe. When both animals live in the household and are fond of each other, your cat will probably perceive the dog as a fellow cat. However, it is possible for your cat to be unreceptive with your dog. That’s because both of them are territorial animals. Your cat might see your dog as a rival instead of a companion. You may need to train your pets so they can like cordially with each other.
Further Reading: “Why Does My Cat Attack My Hair?“
Do Cats Understand Dogs?
Yes, cats understand dogs. It’s quite easy for cats to understand dogs because both pets have many similarities. They are both territorial animals and predators belonging to the same order. Besides, they both love public displays of affection. So, to a large extent, cats can understand dogs and maintain a friendly relationship with them. The Journal Of Veterinary Behavior organized a survey to know whether pet owners think cats and dogs get along or not. The survey revealed that the type of relationship that will exist between both animals depends on the cat. That’s because felines are less friendly than dogs. So, the success of a cordial relationship depends mostly on the attitude of the cat.
Some felines exhibit territorial instincts, while others are willing to share with their household pets. If your cat is territorial, they must respect each other’s boundaries for both pets to live peacefully together. Both animals usually mark their territories. Train your pets to stay within their territories. That way, your cat and dog can live in mutual understanding and respect for each other.
The Journal Of Veterinary Behavior organized a survey that reveals the type of relationship that will exist between both animals depends on the cat. That’s because felines are less friendly than dogs. So, the success of a cordial relationship depends mostly on the attitude of the cat.
Further Reading: “Why Does My Cat Watch Me Shower?“
Do Cats And Dogs Get Along?
Most people believe that cats and dogs don’t get along. So, they are discouraged from adopting the two pets in the same home. But is this notion true or false? Do felines and dogs get along? Both animals can be friends and live together as household pets. But does this mean cats and dogs always get along? No!
An article published in the Journal Of Veterinary Behavior reveals that the age at which both animals are introduced to each other is essential. Animals introduced at young ages get along more than those that are introduced to each other whenever they are adults. So, a kitten and a puppy will get along more than an adult cat and an adult dog. Besides, adult cats are more receptive to puppies. This is because puppies are still very small and harmless. When they are introduced to the household, the cats may even take on the responsibility of caring for the puppy.
The bulk of the work resides in the hands of their owners. Pet owners can train their pets to get along. What is most important is to teach them to respect each other’s territories so they won’t fight over food, space, water, or toys. And remember: Whether your cat and dog will get along largely depends on the attitude of your cat. So, it is crucial to train your cat to be more receptive to other animals.
Animals introduced at young ages get along more than those that are introduced to each other whenever they are adults. So, a kitten and a puppy will get along more than an adult cat and an adult dog.
Further Reading: “Why Is My Cat Licking The Carpet?“
What Do Cats Do When They See A Dog?
When cats get along with a dog in the household, they take care of the dog like one of their own. You may notice them grooming her. And when they are newly introduced to a dog or a puppy, sometimes the process is rather a smooth one. Both animals may get along. Yet, other times, they don’t. Your cat might be displeased to see a new dog in the home, especially if she’s a clingy one. She may become hostile and hiss at the dog as soon as she sees the dog.
As soon as you notice that your cat is rather hostile to the new dog, separate both animals to prevent a tussle between them. But if a cat is threatened by a dog, especially a large one, she might run or hide. Some cats have anxieties when a new dog is introduced into their home and may decide to mark their territories, including their owners.
Further Reading: “How Many Kittens Can A Cat Father Have In A Year?“
Final Thoughts
Do your cats get along with your dog? Great! Felines can either see dogs as their friends or as an enemy. But because they are hostile to each other at first doesn’t mean your cat and your dog can’t get along with each other later. We know that the age they meet each other is very important to the later relationship. Kittens meeting puppies have a higher chance to become ‘buddies’ than older cats and dogs. When they are not getting along as you want, all you have to do is to train them to respect each other. However, it is necessary to separate them for the time being to prevent your cats from attacking the dog.
Most times, when there is just one dog in a household of two or more cats, the animals get along with each other. But when more than one dog is living together with the cats, it may be difficult to make all animals bond together. That’s primarily because the dogs may form bonds with their kind alone and alienate themselves from the cats.
