A lot of people believe dogs and cats are mortal enemies. In reality, they're not. They simply fit the mold of natural predators. They can live peacefully under the same roof as long as their owner takes the right approach in introducing them. In fact, it's not uncommon for canines and cats to not only accept each other, but enjoy each other's company. They essentially become friends.

This article will explain why confrontations occur between them. You'll discover the reason is intuitive to their respective natures. We'll also provide a step-by-step plan to help you make the introduction, and ensure they'll get along.

The Reason Confrontations Occur - As mentioned, both species are predators. When preying upon other species, they normally chase those that are smaller. This is the reason you'll typically observe dogs chasing cats. Cats rarely chase canines due to their size. Realize, however, that when a dog chases a cat, he does not mean to kill it. While the prey drive is instinctive, it seldom leads to that end.

Another factor that can trigger a confrontation is that both species instinctively protect their respective territories. If one pet was introduced to your home before the other, he may consider the home his territory. Hence, the other pet (i.e. the latecomer) is seen as an usurper.

With the above in mind, we'll now explore how to bring the two pets under a single household, and prevent fights.

How To Establish A Friendship (Or At Least Prevent A Fight) - It's important to establish a few ground rules when introducing your cat and dog to each other. First, you'll need to work in stages. Don't simply leave them in the same room together, and expect them to get along peacefully (remember, they're both predators at heart).

Second, try to calm both pets before letting them meet each other. If either is tense, the situation can turn hostile, and escalate quickly.

Third, take and keep the reins during the entire process. Stay in control. Your canine and cat may not initially enjoy each other's company, but they need to know you're in charge at all times. This will help keep them calm.

Before They Meet Face To Face - Suppose you currently have a canine, and are bringing a new cat home. Place the cat in a room, and close the door. Then, allow your dog to roam freely throughout your house. This lets him know he has free run of "his" territory, even though another animal is nearby.

Let this continue over a few days. Your two pets will begin to recognize each other's scent. If, while separated by the door, they both act calmly, give treats to both pets.

Meeting For The First Time - After a few days have passed, your two pets will have become accustomed to each other's presence. Let them meet face to face. Erect a baby gate in the doorway between them. It should be high enough to discourage your cat from climbing (he's unlikely to want to since your canine is on the other side).

If possible, have a friend hold one pet a few feet away from the gate while you do the same for the other. Assuming both pets act calmly when facing each other, provide treats to both so they'll associate the other's company with something they enjoy. Then, allow them to move a little closer to their respective sides of the gate. Make sure you and your friend maintain control of both pets.

Coexisting Peacefully - As long as your dog and cat have remained calm during the "gate phase," place them in the same room with your dog on a leash. Then, keep them separated. Limit the amount of time they are exposed to each other, and slowly extend the periods over the next few days. As each pet grows used to having the other in the same room, let them come closer to each other. Provide treats and praise during this process.

Your dog and cat will eventually learn to accept each other under the same roof. It takes time and patience. Before long, however, they may even become friends.

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