A dog sleeping next to a rabbit hutch, a cat observing a bearded dragon in front of a lamp, a parrot talking to a ferret… There are many of us who dream of the kind of home where different kinds of animals get along. It is possible and it can actually be wonderful, but it requires planning, patience and an understanding of animal nature.
Here are some tips for creating a multi-species home that allows all pets to thrive without stress or danger.
Start With Instinct, Not Wishful Thinking
Before you introduce any animals, understand that predator and prey instincts don’t disappear because an animal has been fed from a bowl all its life.
- Dogs were created to work in many ways including hunting, guarding and herding. A terrier has a natural drive to chase small animals while a breed like a Spaniel will not.
- Cats are opportunistic hunters. Even a mild cat can be startled by the sudden activity of a small reptile, rodent, bird or similar.
- Birds, rodents, rabbits and guinea pigs are prey species. Chronic stress in these animals can occur through a constant exposure to a predator, even a friendly one. This may result in a change in eating, health or longevity.
- Ferrets are predators and can pose a threat to smaller pets. They themselves can also be threatened by dogs.
As a general guide, if one animal can scare or harm another then this should be addressed in terms of safety before it is addressed in terms of friendship.
Choose the Right Animals for Your Household
Compatibility can be addressed prior to the arrival of a new pet. Some factors to take into account include:
Consider temperament over breed. While breed is a good indication of a pet’s behaviour, personality is of far greater importance. For example, an adult cat or dog that is calm and socialised to other animals will generally be more accepting of other pets than an excitable under-socialised animal.
Early socialisation. Kittens and puppies that are given appropriate opportunities to become socialised to other animals at a young age generally cope more easily with other pets. This is also a reason why the provider of the pet can be important. Animals raised in a home environment by breeders that are early socialisers and temperament testers are generally better than those from providers who cannot provide any information regarding the animal’s temperament when young.
Age and activity levels. An energetic young dog may be too much for an older cat. An elderly animal may also be uninterested in a new companion.
Your individual capabilities. Each pet has specific housing, enrichment, veterinary and food requirements in addition to time commitments. Be realistic with your financial and time capabilities.
Pairings That Often Work (With Caveats)
- Dog and cat – This is one of the most frequently encountered mixed combinations. With a low prey drive dog and a confident cat, this combination can be extremely successful. Cats will however require secure retreat areas and high perches to keep them feeling safe.
- Dog and dog or cat and cat – Introductions between animals of the same species should still be carried out in a cautious and gradual manner.
- Rabbit and dog or cat – This relationship can work with the right individuals. Rabbits must always have a secure area separate from all other animals and must never be left alone with a large animal.
- Birds and dog or cat – this should be carefully managed. Birds are frequently housed in a cage in a separate room or in a room with a cage placed out of reach. Any time out of the cage is only permitted when other animals are not present.
- Reptiles and other animals – Reptiles are frequently housed separately and securely. Enclosures should be locked. There is also a hygiene issue associated with reptiles. They can carry Salmonella, so hands should be washed after every interaction with reptiles and other animals should not be allowed into reptile areas.
- Small mammals and any other animal – Simply the presence of a dog or cat can be stressful to small mammals. Cages should be placed in a quiet room out of the reach of all other animals.
How to Introduce Pets Safely
Another very common error is rushing the introduction. Take it slow.
- Provide individual spaces for each animal. Provide shelter, food, water and enrichment within that space that the other animals do not also have access to.
- Allow scent exchange prior to meeting. Allow animals to interact with another animal’s toys or bedding to become accustomed to the scent before actual introduction.
- Allow viewing/smelling. Introduce animals by allowing them to see and smell one another behind a closed cage, screen door, or baby gate.
- Praise and reward calm behavior. Reinforce calm in animals with treats and verbal praise. If you observe chasing, staring, hissing, panic, or lunging interrupt the introduction and step back.
- Allow short initial interactions. Conclude introductions on a positive note and progressively increase the amount of time spent together over days or weeks.
- Always supervise introductions. Never allow animals to interact unattended until you are 100% comfortable with the introduction. For high risk introductions continue to supervise.
Reading Body Language
Signs of stress and aggression in the various animals:
- Dogs – stiff stance, intense stare, raised fur, freeze, intense fixation on the other animal.
- Cats – flattened ears, dilated pupils, puffed tail, crouch, hissing.
- Prey species – hiding, freeze, thumping (rabbits), over-breathing, loss of appetite.
If a pet seems consistently stressed, give it more space. Quiet stress doesn’t always look dramatic, but it can harm health over time.
Design a Home That Supports Everyone
A multi-species home can function effectively if the environment provides some of the enrichment:
- Vertical space for cats to escape and survey
- Lockable enclosures that are unattractive to curious paws
- Species specific feeding areas to reduce theft and food guarding
- Peaceful areas for small or shy species to retreat
- Dog-unavailable litter areas
However enrichment and exercise should also be provided on a daily basis, as under stimulation and boredom can increase species interaction.
Don’t Skip the Vet and the Paperwork
Every animal should be up to date on vaccinations, parasite control and health checks before sharing a home. Some diseases and parasites can pass between species, so ask your vet about your particular mix. Check local council rules and any limits on the number or type of animals you can keep.
Where Your Next Pet Comes From Matters
When picking up a second cat or dog for a home that already has pets, the breeder you select can play a large role in the transition. Consider finding a breeder that health-tests breeding animals, asks many questions about your home and family, provides information about the temperament of the individual animal, raises animals at home, and asks you questions about your home and family.
In Australia, Responsible Pet Breeders Australia is a good place to start your search. Its members follow ethical breeding standards, and full members are audited by a veterinarian. It’s a useful resource if you want a healthy puppy or kitten with a good temperament and the best chance of fitting into a mixed-species household.
When It Doesn’t Work Out
Pets may not always get along together. This is not always down to the owner. Some combinations of pets can be dangerous if forced into a relationship. Some pets may need to be kept permanently apart. If you are having difficulty then ask your vet or a professional animal behaviourist for advice. Often with early intervention problems can be dealt with more successfully.
The Bottom Line
Realistic expectations, gradual introductions and a safe environment for all animals can form the foundation of a peaceful inter-species relationship. Focus on personality rather than the perfect friendship that was initially envisaged. Take it slow, ignore nothing that may indicate stress and put safety before all else. Sometimes the ideal result isn’t a cuddle mob but a home where all animals are safe and respected.
