Cats and dogs living together may sound like trouble, but millions of households have both.

To promote harmony, raise them together. If that’s not possible, it’s usually easier to have the cat first. This way, you can choose a dog that does not have strong hunting or herding instincts, or that has successfully lived with cats already.

Introductions should be made gradually, starting with just the scent of each animal. For the first several weeks, meetings must be supervised, with the dog always on a leash. The cat should also have an escape route to a safe place that’s completely inaccessible to the dog.

With patience and lots of rewards for good behavior, cats and dogs can learn to live in harmony.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series