People have believed for centuries that dogs and cats don’t get along, but is that really true? Do cats and dogs actually have centuries of beef with each other?
Dogs and cats do not necessarily hate each other. They may just have different personalities that can clash – just like humans! Cats may have calmer (or less social) personalities while dogs may have more outgoing personalities. This can cause the cat to get annoyed with the dog which may cause them to distance themselves; kinda like if you have an annoying little sibling who won’t leave you alone.
House cats also have learned defensive instincts. They usually are solitary animals. They see dogs, which are usually much bigger than they are, as threats. That may cause them to flee or fight the dogs in response. Dogs could also see a cat as prey and chase them. The dogs might just want to play, but a cat could see a dog’s play as an attack.
Another factor that may affect their friendship is how long they’ve known each other. Cats and dogs that have grown up with each other bond over time, so they would be less likely to fight. This is the case for my cats and dogs. Newer pairs may have conflicts because they are still getting used to each other. They are still trying to figure out each other’s personalities. This can lead to conflicts and distancing.
If you do want to adopt a cat or a dog, but you already have the other animal, you should make a plan for introductions. Short meeting periods, designated food/ shelter spaces, or having people they are already comfortable with nearby can help them adjust easier. Having a cat or dog in another room, while the other roams or sleeps, lets the animal get used to the new environment and smells without being bothered by the other. Short meeting periods let the animals collaborate without having to be around each other 24/7.
The hatred has been classified as a myth, but it really depends on the animal’s personality. Cats and dogs can be best friends, or rivals, but it really just depends on them.
