What it means to be like a dog and a cat? Popular expressions are effectively handed down because they contain concepts that would otherwise be difficult to describe in such a direct way. If you meet two people who are constantly arguing and teasing each other, you immediately think: “Those two are like cat and dog!”.
But can there be some affection behind this behavior? Could it be true that the pets most loved by man can only be bitter enemies?
Being like a dog and a cat: the origin of the saying
The expression “being like cat and dog” is used to describe a quarrelsome relationship between two people. It originates from the deep and marked ethological differences that exist between these two species:
- Dogs were domesticated by humans a long time ago, but they often retain their hunting instincts, which comes out when they try to catch a cat.
- Cats, on the other hand, are smart, stealthy and agile and have nothing to fear: they will be able to skillfully defend themselves, responding with their nails if necessary.
And even when they are “forced” to live together, between dog and cat they never fail spite.
But is it really true that these two species are so incompatible?
Can dogs and cats get along?
The wisdom of the saying lies in the fact that dog and cat they will always tease each other and in any case each other, but this does not mean that they will not be able to establish a deep emotional bond.
It may not be a real idyll, but a lot will depend on the circumstances and the owner.
What is certain is that with the right time and a little patience, it will be possible to teach the dog and the cat to get along.
His feline Majesty will probably always look with disgust at the clumsy ways and annoying saliva of his canid friend, but he will know how to find the right compromise by delighting in the preparation of ambushes or treacherous jokes.
Here are some things to know before embarking on a coexistence between these two species to dispel the myth of “being like cat and dog.
Age matters!
The age at which new roommates approach is very important: when the newcomer is a puppy, socialization will be easier and more promising. Even better if it is a puppy cat. Our pets will be able to awaken a protective instinct that will surprise you!
In small steps
The first step for any successful coexistence it is to start gradually and with common sense. At first it will be a mix of fear, curiosity, anxiety and uncertainty.
The two animals will initially be kept in separate environments (even in a special box if the newcomer is a puppy) and supervised during the meetings, which will gradually increase in duration until full coexistence.
We avoid stressing the animals
During the meetings we leave our animals the space to get to know each other and we intervene only if necessary.
We try to pass on to the new dog / cat and our family pet firmness and tranquility: Being anxious, shouting or being overly protective negatively affects the status of animals.
We prepare the territory
The territory of the meetings must be strategicis the terrain of a small hierarchical battle between two individuals who will have to learn to live together.
Here the demonstration of what it means to be a dog and a cat will take place: let’s remember that for the family cat dog this is an invasion of the field: let’s give them the right space and the appropriate escape routes to avoid unwanted collisions.
We reward correct behaviors
When Fido finally listens to us and stops chasing the cat, and Micio on the other hand does not extend his paw and threatens him with aggressive noises or runs away from fright, it is appropriate to give prizes to gratify the great effort of the bear with each other.
A bit like brother and sister, who love each other despite their differences, because they are a family.
Balance in spaces and beyond
Coexistence is sometimes more difficult between people with different characters than between animals of different species. Unless there is an invasion of space and hidden jealousies.
In fact, some furry ones are more sensitive than others to changes, and for them the entry of a new mismanaged animal could be the source of behavioral problems.
Will my pet suffer with a newcomer?
As we have seen, it is not good to rely too much on the saying “to be like dog and cat”, as these two animals in some cases can keep company and even become great friends.
This will surely depend on:
- personality of our 4 legs,
- from their education,
- from the breed,
- from the age at which it approaches.
But much more depends on you and yours bravura. You will have to know how to balance affection and attention equally and above all establish a hierarchy, in which you are the leader: in this way, even if every now and then you will get some spite from good historical enemies, you can restore calm at any time.