How to Prevent Dog and Cat Fighting

Many households have both a cat and a dog but this can often turn into some serious fights between the two. Normally, when you think about cats and dogs fighting you may think of the dog attacking the cat but this is not always the case. Cats are quite capable of taking the offensive and have a tendency to attempt to warn dogs off by hissing, puffing up and even letting out a growl. Regardless of which one starts the fight, it can be very disruptive to the household but there are a few things that can be done to help prevent dogs and cats from fighting.

Things You'll Need

  • Safe haven for your pets
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide both pets with a safe haven where the cat and dog can go to escape if he or she begins to feel threatened by the other. This could be their own pet bed or kennel or other area that is set aside for their use. Pets will normally be less aggressive if they have a safe haven where they can retreat.

    • 2

      Each pet should have their own toys with their personal food and water bowls so they are not forced to share.

    • 3

      Divide your attention between your dogs and cats equally because pets can experience jealousy towards each other and this encourages negative behavior.

    • 4

      Don't try to force the pets to be around each other because this can encourage fighting. The cat and dog will eventually get used to each other on their own if neither of them are being pressured.

    • 5

      When bringing a new cat or dog into the home, allow the original pet to get the scent of the new pet before allowing them to meet. This can be done by placing anything with the new pet's scent on it where the original pet can smell it. You can also keep them in separate rooms where they can smell each other's scent but not see each other until you're ready for them to actually meet. This will give them a chance to get used to the idea of another animal in the house.

    • 6

      Use treats to reward good behavior between the two and this will encourage positive behavior in the future.