The line between cats and dogs seems to have been drawn long ago, with a firm standing on either side. Growing up, I remember thinking you had to choose ONE, and that was it; you were either a dog person or a cat person, as if you were bound to carry that around with you as part of your identity until you were dust in the wind.
It was around that time that the 2001 movie Cats & Dogs was released, entertaining what humans have long perceived as a rivalry between species. But is it true? Do dogs and cats actually hate each other in real life? Is it possible for them to coexist peacefully, and if so, how?
The Real Difference Between Cats And Dogs
Dogs have long been thought to be wholesome, loyal, and trustworthy. And they are! You may think of the adage, “a dog is a man’s best friend.” This phrase was first coined by Frederick the Great of Prussia who reigned between 1740-1786. It’s no surprise that dogs have fallen in good favor with humankind – they were bred to accommodate specific needs such as hunting, herding, and guarding. In return, dogs rely on us as a part of their “pack” to feed them and take care of them, which makes them great pets.
Cats on the other hand basically domesticated themselves because living with humans was mutually beneficial (they hunted mice which helped subdue our pest problems). Cats simply don’t rely on a tight family structure the way dogs do, and are not geared towards a “pack mentality”. Dogs feel safer when they are a part of a large group with a clear hierarchy. Without an understanding of who’s in charge, dogs can become nervous and confused. Cats? Not so much. But even when you think they aren’t paying attention, cats do take notice of your comings and goings. Even though Mr. Whiskers may not feel like he relies on you for survival, he still prefers your company (even if that company only consists of staring at you from the other room).
That’s certainly not to say that cats aren’t social. They are simply social in a different way, and on their own terms. For this reason, they have been misdiagnosed as cold in comparison to their canine counterparts. But does this difference in social structure indicate that they won’t get along under the same roof?
Rivalry
The so-called “rivalry” between cats and dogs is age old. But are the cartoons true? Is there no hope of our favorite furry animals putting their differences aside and calling a truce? Of course, that depends. Every individual animal has their preferences and idiosyncrasies. Some cats might be intimidated by big dogs, or simply not have the patience for a particularly yappy pup. (Their hearing is much better than ours, after all.) Similarly, some dogs may not get along well with cats, perhaps due to a bad experience or a wariness of other animals in general.
There is no rule, genetic or otherwise that says cats and dogs are born to hate each other. Whether a cat and a dog will get along depends on, well, both the cat and the dog. Luckily, if you’re thinking of adopting both, there is a responsible way to make sure all your pets will get along.
Introducing New Pets
There are many things to take into consideration when you introduce any new pets, such as age, breed, and history. If you have a cat and are considering bringing a dog into the family, certain breeds are much more cat-friendly than others. German Shepherds, for example, are very adaptable and may have an easier time getting used to a feline friend. Basset Hounds have a reputation for having an easy-going temperament, and will likely warm up to your kitty in no time.
Age and history are other major aspects that will affect how well two pets interact. If you are looking to adopt a senior dog or cat, they may be less inclined to adjust to other animals, perhaps due to a past trauma or simple unfamiliarity. On the other hand, they may have had experience with other animals in their previous homes. The only way to know is to ask! When you visit the shelter, come prepared with a list of questions. Next, bring your cat or dog with you for an initial introduction.
If things go well, take it from there. Remember to introduce them slowly, and give them time to get used to each other. Start off by keeping them in separate rooms, and scheduling supervised “playdates” where they are able to get used to each other in neutral territory. Who knows, they may end up being best friends!
