I have been mulling this idea around in my head for a while but have yet to reach a decision/conclusion. I have a small dog that is nine months old. Many people have suggested I get him a buddy, a partner, a friend. I don’t know if I have the time and/or resources to do that, but, then again, I hate for him to be lonely…even though I do spend appreciable time with him. In contemplating a second pet for my dog, I decided to inquire what other types of pets would be compatible with him. A cat? Another dog? A rabbit? A horse? (Okay – thinking a bit too much here!)
There really is no simple answer as to what types of pets get along with other pets, especially when it comes to getting a pet companion for your cat. If you are contemplating getting a friend for your cat, a few things you should consider include the species of the housemate you intend to get; the temperament of both your cat and the pet you are considering; your ability to monitor and manage the situation; and your environmental set up.
While certainly some species can get together beautifully, others cannot, which can be damaging or even fatal to both animals.
What if you want to bring in a dog to hang out with your cat? Will they fight like cats and dogs? Will they hate each other? While some cats and dogs may fight, not all cats and dogs are mortal enemies. You have to consider the genetic influences at play. By nature, dogs are predators, and predators like to chase quickly moving furry things that are smaller than they are. Hmmmm…what type of pet does that describe? Yes, that is a potential problem. But, like humans, dogs and cats are not driven just by their nature alone. There is the learned component, as well. Dogs and cats can learn to be friends, provided it is within the sensitive time period where they learn who their friends are. This usually is during the first two to three months of life. If you were to raise a puppy during this time among cats and this puppy experiences nothing but good times, he will most likely grow up to view cats as fun-loving domestic creatures. The same goes for a new kitten. However, in either situation, it is important to properly chaperone and protect the most vulnerable of the species during this introductory time period.
Clearly, a cat should never be introduced to a home where a dog has been taught to run and chase after cats. Any cat brought into that particular equation will just be deemed as prey. Even if the dog does not kill the cat, the cat will still endure a hostile and miserable existence. On the flip side, a new puppy may have to be protected from a bullying and territorial cat. Some dogs may just spend their lives avoiding the cat, but how reasonable is it to expect the dog to live like that?
What about cats and pocket pets? Mice, rats and other little critters should only be kept in a home with a cat if you can positively guarantee their safety and well-being. Your cat may seem to like the new rabbit, but cats are cats. They are programmed to chase and pounce on small animals that run quickly. If you do desire small rodents in the house, then be sure to keep them in a cage where the bars are close enough together to keep your cat from reaching in and grabbing. Be sure your cat cannot chew through the cage and that the cage cannot be easily knocked down or over.
Thinking of birds or fish? Then the bird cage and fish tank should be secured firmly and placed well out the way of the paw’s reach. If you keep a lid on the fish tank, that should suffice. With a bird, however, you could have a bit more of an issue. Smaller birds are at greater risk than larger birds for intimidation by the cat and are also at greater risk for injury or even death.
Then there are the reptiles. Personally, the thought of a snake in the house terrifies me. Any reptile does. Just be forewarned that snakes and cats cannot cohabitate. The larger constrictor snakes and the poisonous ones can and will kill a cat. Reptiles, such as iguanas, are aggressive and have razor-sharp teeth and are not afraid to use them.
Essentially, when you are considering getting another pet to bring company to your cat, do your research first. Learn about their natural tendencies out in the wild. Different species can learn to live together, but you have to be at the helm at all times, as the welfare of your cat is in your hands. And never, ever let your cat alone with a snake or a reptile. Just don’t.
Source: petplace.com/Dr. Nicholas Dodman
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
