Does your household contain both a kitty and a pup? Do you have a cat, and maybe want to get a dog, or vice versa? In some cases, Fluffy and Fido bond well, and become BFFs. In other cases, they just fight like, well, cats and dogs. A local vet discusses helping your furry pals make peace in this article.

Keep Pets Active

Both cats and dogs tend to be much calmer and better behaved when they are getting enough exercise and playtime. Talk time to walk and play with your dog every day. This will help him burn off excess energy. As for Fluffy, play with her regularly, and make sure she has lots of toys.

Don’t Just Go By Breed

Dogs’ breeds definitely influence their behavior. However, breed isn’t the biggest factor. Personality is actually much more important! Consider your pup’s character and history, as well as his breed.

Train Fido

Fido needs a lot of training to learn how to be a good boy. Teach your pooch to be gentle with Fluffy … even when she pounces on his tail.

Separate Spaces

One common issue here is that dogs have no qualms about eating their feline roommates’ dinners. Keep Fluffy’s food and litterbox in a place Fido can’t reach. One option is to cut a little kitty door into a closet.

Proper Introductions

First impressions are a big deal to our canine and feline friends. Take some time when introducing your pets. At first, keep them separated, and just let them get accustomed to each other’s scents. Introduce them carefully, slowly, and under supervision. If they start to fight, separate them and start over.

Let Them Grow Up Together

This is the best option. More often than not, kittens and puppies who grow up together do just fine. They may even become playmates and napping buddies! (Plus, you’ll get some adorable photos of Fluffy and Fido along the way.)

Offer Safe Spaces

Fluffy feels more secure in safe areas. Make sure that she has a spot to retreat to in every room. This doesn’t have to be fancy, just somewhere the dog can’t reach her. Vertical spaces, such as cat towers, are purrfect for this.

Know When To Say When

Unfortunately, peace and harmony just isn’t always going to happen. Squabbles can be quite dangerous, especially for the cat. If your canine buddy is showing signs of aggression, you may need to rethink things. Ask your vet for specific advice. 

Please reach out to us, your local vet clinic, anytime. We are here to help!