Many dogs can live peacefully with cats, often forming a close relationship where they can even sleep together and clean each other. But this is not always the case – not all dogs and cats can live together.

Some cats may be very nervous of dogs, and even a calm dog may scare your cat so much that their welfare is compromised. Likewise, there are some dogs whose predatory drive is so strong they cannot safely be left with cats at all.

If your dog consistently shows signs of being overexcited around cats and can’t be calmed down, it likely isn’t safe for them to live together.

If you find yourself living with a dog and cat who are struggling to be around each other, keep them separate at all times and contact a qualified behaviourist for advice.