How to Help Your Cat and Dog to Get Along?

Almost 50 percent of American households own multiple pets. That means that of them should provide a safe space for dogs and cats simultaneously. To do that successfully, they need to take steps and make sure that their pets live in harmony with each other. If you want to know how to help your cat and dog to get along, veterinarians from Eastshore Vet, the best veterinary agency in Madison, recommend the following tips.

How to Help Your Cat and Dog to Get Along?

Plan Ahead‍

Before your new pet comes into your home, try to adjust your living place to a new member. You may want to install a baby gate and rearrange your pet’s space. Be patient and give your pet time to adjust to change.You might also want to prepare your old pet for the arrival of a new one by providing a piece of cloth for scent introduction. Start doing that during his meals or throughout playing sessions.

‍Train Your Dog

One of the most important factors that will help your cat and dog to get along is good training. Start with basic commands and then continue teaching your dog to tolerate cats. These commands should help you to prevent him to chase a cat. If you want a peaceful household, never allow your dog to run after your cat.

‍Provide a Safe Space for Your Cat

Cats will rarely attack a dog if they can retreat into a safe place. Give your cat some vertical places such as a cat tree or perches on the walls. It will allow her to get away from a dog and feel safe.

‍Let Them Vent up Their Energy

‍When your pets get a lot of exercise, they will be more peaceful and ready to cooperate. Before every introduction session, let them play and get active to burn off their energy.

‍Separate Them at the Beginning

Give your old and new pet several days before introducing them to each other. Your goal is to help them feel safe when they are getting used to a new situation. After they get comfortable and accustomed to smells, you may introduce them.

‍Introduce Them Properly

You want to make sure that your both pets are relaxed and in a good mood before you introduce them to each other. The best you can do is to feed them before and give them some treats during the introduction. Invite them into play if they want to and don’t force anything. End up every session before they get nervous.Repeat the last step until they learn to tolerate each other’s presence.