04 August,2026 09:00 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani Gabhare
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham with his Bichon Frise-Poodle, Axel. Pic courtesy/Facebook
This writer first thought about dog and cat coexistence after watching The Adventures of Milo and Otis (1989). Years later, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham's decision not to bring his dog, a Bichon Frisé-Poodle, Axel, to 10 Downing Street to avoid stressing Larry the Cat, the resident Chief Mouser, revived the same question. To end this curiosity, we reached out to pet parents and a veterinarian to understand what makes such relationships work.
Canine behaviour specialist Mitali Salvi, founder of Mitali's Board & Train, says the biggest misconception is that dogs and cats must become inseparable. "People often measure success by whether the animals cuddle or play together, but that's an unrealistic benchmark. The healthiest homes are those where both animals are relaxed enough to ignore each other, move freely through shared spaces and settle without constantly reacting."
Mehak Mirza Prabhu with her pets, Bella, Bagheera and Diamond. Pics courtesy/Mehak Mirza Prabhu
Early socialisation, consistent training and the dog's individual temperament influence behaviour just as much. Salvi also believes many introductions fail because people rush the process. "You're not arranging a first date, or trying to manufacture friendship. Give the cat elevated escape routes, keep feeding and litter areas separate and allow both animals to establish their own comfort levels. A wagging tail and playful bouncing may seem harmless to us, but it can be intimidating for a cat. Likewise, hissing or swatting isn't aggression; it's simply communication," informs Salvi.
For Salvi, there is one non-negotiable rule: If the cat continues living in fear or the dog repeatedly displays predatory behaviour despite training, owners have to prioritise welfare over wishful thinking.
Mitali Salvi with Panty and Chaddi. Pics courtesy/Mitali Salvi
When it comes to leaving their pets home alone, confidence comes with time. Now comfortable in each other's company, the cat and dog are left together without worry. In the early days, however, they were kept in separate rooms whenever their owners stepped out, giving them time to adjust at their own pace.
Storyteller Mehak Mirza Prabhu explains living with a Golden Retriever and two rescued cats changed her perspective. "We resisted the temptation to orchestrate every interaction. Instead, we focused on making sure each animal felt secure in the house, and the relationships unfolded naturally."
She adds that the emotional climate created by the family is just as important as the animals themselves. "My Golden Retriever, Bella, is playful with my daughter, noticeably calmer around me, and the cats respond differently depending on the energy in the room."
Prabhu admits the hardest part wasn't introducing them, but learning when to step back. "I was reading into every glance, and every pause while they were quietly establishing their own boundaries. That experience taught me that peaceful coexistence isn't about making them interact all the time. Sometimes, they seek each other out, sometimes they choose solitude, and both are equally healthy. Real harmony comes from allowing each personality to exist without forcing expectations onto it."
Pic courtesy/Museum of the Prime Minister
When it comes to travelling, boarding has never been an option for them. "They're like kids," adds Mirza Prabhu, relying instead on full-time help so their dog and cat can stay at home, surrounded by the familiar sights, smells and routines that keep them comfortable.
If introductions go off track, prioritise welfare over forced interaction at any cost.
>> Separate immediately: Persistent chasing, stalking, predatory fixation or defensive aggression indicates introductions are progressing quickly. Increase distance and restart gradually.
>> Avoid punishment: Scolding can heighten fear and create negative associations. Controlled desensitisation and positive interactions are more effective.
>> Watch for stress-related illness: Chronic stress may trigger Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC), urinary tract disease or herpes virus flare-ups in cats, while dogs may develop gastrointestinal issues or anxiety-related behaviours.
>> Seek veterinary support: Keep vaccinations and parasite prevention up to date and maintain separate feeding and litter areas. If behavioural management fails, consult a veterinarian about pheromone diffusers, anxiolytic supplements or short-term anti-anxiety medication alongside behavioural therapy.
>> Prioritise familiarity: Whenever possible, keep pets in their home environment with a trusted caregiver rather than taking them on unnecessary trips or relocating them.
Information courtesy: Dr Hemant Thange
