Saturday, March 26, 2011

My Cat & Dog Are Fighting - Train Pets To Play Nice

By Robert Baker


My cat & dog are fighting. If the war continues a pet could suffer serious injury. Some pet fights result in death. Cats run, dogs chase, a natural instinct. Some cats fight back with claws and teeth. Dueling pets must be separated until they learn to live together peacefully.

How to stop a fight? Use a broom to scat small pets away. A loud noise or splashing water may cause pets to startle and run. Throw a blanket over a small dog. With a larger dog grab the back legs and pull backwards, circling to keep the dog from focusing on you. Grab a leash but never pull on the collar.

Don't get in the middle. In fight mode any dog may turn his aggression on you. Cat bites are very toxic, usually requiring medical care. Yelling increases dog aggression. Consider professional assistance if you fear for your safety or the safety of your pets.

Teach your canine that felines are off limits. Have the dog on leash in a sit/stay while a helper brings the cat into the room. Stop every time the dog gets excited. Tell him "leave it" and put back into sit/stay. The dog should ignore the cat and focus on you. Treats for both can help. Both pets will associate the other with a reward. If you're unsure of your dog, use a muzzle when the cat is in the same area, allowing you to relax and enjoy both your pets.

Multiple dogs are a pack. One dog starting a chase can quickly become a pack killing the cat. Train each dog, one at a time with the cat, then introduce a larger grouping slowly. If there's doubt, don't leave unsupervised.

All pets need a private spot where they can rest undisturbed. Don't leave food bowls out for pets to fight over. Food aggression is a major cause of pet wars.

Some cats and dogs are best buddies. Some ignore each other. Some will never be safe together. Sometimes the caring pet owner provides separate living spaces for their dueling pets.




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