Can Dogs and Cats Get Along? Things to Know Before Living Together: Advice from a Veterinary Nurse

How Dogs and Cats Interact | What's More Important Than 'Getting Along'

'Dogs and cats can't live together.'
Some people may have that image.

However, in reality, there are many households where dogs and cats live peacefully in the same home.

What's important is,
not forcing them to get along, but creating a distance where both can feel secure.

Dogs and cats differ significantly not only in personality but also in communication methods and daily rhythms.

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Dogs and Cats Have Different 'Ways of Thinking' to Begin With

Dogs have a habit of living in packs,
and are animals that often seek interaction with people and companions.

On the other hand, cats have a habit of acting independently,
and value their own safe spaces and pace.

For example,

Dog: 'I want to play! I want to get closer!'
Cat: 'I want to be left alone right now'

A mismatch in feelings like this can occur.

Even if the dog has no bad intentions, it can be a major source of stress for the cat.

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When Meeting for the First Time, 'Getting Them Close' Isn't What's Important

When having a dog and cat meet for the first time,
it is not recommended to immediately let them loose in the same space.

First, it is important to:

・Let them get to know each other's scents
・Create time for them to feel secure in separate places
・Provide escape routes and high places for the cat
・Observe the dog to ensure it doesn't get too excited

Prioritizing the animals' pace over the human desire for them to 'get along' is the shortcut to success.

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Signs That Dogs and Cats Are Feeling Stressed

There are changes you must not overlook.

For cats:

・Increased time spent hiding

・Loss of appetite
・Increased litter box accidents
・Increased grooming
For dogs:
・Continuous barking

・Chasing
・Restlessness
・Changes in appetite
These are not signs of a 'bad personality',
but may be signs of anxiety or stress.

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What I Feel as a Pet Sitter

When left alone, dogs and cats cannot say 'I'm lonely' or 'I'm scared' in words.

Especially in households where dogs and cats live together,

it is also important to see what kind of relationship they have when the owner is away.

Even if they seem to get along normally,
they may be harboring small amounts of patience or stress.

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What Dogs and Cats Need Is a 'Secure Relationship' Rather Than 'Being Friends'

Seeing a dog and cat sleeping snuggled up together is very heartwarming.

But what is truly important

is not that they are always together.

It is creating an environment where each can think,
'It's okay to be here.'

Both dogs and cats have their own personalities and paces.
Understanding those differences is the first step to living together.
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As a veterinary nurse and a pet sitter,

I provide support that is close to the animals' feelings so that your precious family members can spend their time safely even when you are away.
Service Area: Nishi-Mikawa and Nagoya Area

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