I remember being five, maybe six years old and sitting in the dining room of my parents’ old house. You know the type – with the awful woodwork, the weirdly coloured carpet, the whole nine yards (of net curtain). I didn’t care about any of that because I was sat watching cartoons on the floor with my best friend. I had a bowl of cereal in front of me, but I’m sure he stuck around for me, and not the food. He was about 3 months younger than me. A black, shiny Labrador who despite being well trained only obeyed my nanny- she brought him toffee.
I remember this day, I assume it was a Saturday, really well because another family member joined us. Another black, shiny, young, handsome guy. A little smaller than the current champ. Well, actually, a lot smaller, with a tendency to meow, though he didn’t get chance for a little while...
I’m sure we’ve all seen the cartoon Tom & Jerry, heard the expression to “fight like cats and dogs”, or the proverbs “The cat is mighty dignified until the dog comes by” and “The cat and dog may kiss, but are none the better friends.”
These have all taught us that cats and dogs are natural enemies. But how much of this is fact?
Well, let’s find out.
The signals and behaviours (or body language) that felines and canines use to communicate are different and often misinterpreted by the opposite species. Something as simple of saying hello is very different for cats and dogs.
When a cat meets another cat, it would walk past with its tails in the air, making eye contact and blinking. A dog, however, wags its tail, has a good sniff, and runs around without any eye contact.
Even the way they use their tails is different. Dogs wag their tails in excitement or greeting, cats only whip their tails when ready to attack!!
Cats also naturally flee in fear. Whilst dogs love to run, it’s how they play!
You can start to understand why there might be some misunderstanding between the two species.
However, with proper socialisation, cats & dogs can and often do live harmoniously. The best plan is to start early: ideally in their first 12 weeks as puppies or 8 weeks for kittens. This is the best time to teach your pet how to behave around the opposite species and build up trust.
So, do cats and dogs really hate each other? Not entirely. Cats are more solitary and prefer to sit back and observe. Whereas dogs are too friendly and playful. The classic introvert/extrovert scenario!