It is not uncommon for some cats to engage in behaviors that are more typical for dogs.
Maine coons and Ragdolls are more likely to fetch, follow the owner, and respond to their names than other breeds. Cats also have different personalities. Some felines are more eager to have those dog-like behaviors, especially if they are raised in households that reinforce the behaviors through games, food, and attention in general.
Dog-Like Behaviors In Cats
So, what are some of the most common dog-like behaviors that we see in cats?
The following behaviors are quite common. One might argue, however, that they are not at all dog-specific but simply more common for dogs than for cats.
- Your feline companion might follow you around the house and recline near you. Your cat might sleep, groom and simply look around – engage in any activity by your side. This feature is not all that uncommon in cats. Although they are much more independent than dogs, cats do enjoy the company of their human families and like being close to people.
- Following the owner outside is another relatively common behavior. Cats do not usually like being on a leash but some learn to follow the owner as companions. Your cat may not stay next to you at all times but rather come and go but generally follow you. One of our cats goes for a walk with us but will climb a tree, chase a strange cat, and explore something new on the way. She does her own thing but is aware of where we are and does not go too far.
- Some cats will run or walk right next to the owner, and this one is very dog-like and quite rare for cats
- Waiting and greeting the owner is not that uncommon. Most cats probably do that and, just like dogs, many kitties especially like to do it because the owner’s return typically means food and treats.
- Fetching is not very common but many cats enjoy games, so some do develop a habit of fetching objects. A cat’s fetching may not be as consistent and systematic as that of a dog, because they might be less likely to be motivated by praise from the owner.
- Some cats enjoy playing in the water, although that is probably one of the rarer characteristics.
Cat Breeds That Often Act Like Dogs
Several breeds of cats are known to be dog-like in their behaviors. Those breeds include Ragdoll cats, Maine coons, Russian Blue, Siberian, and Bengal cats. Felines of those breeds are very interactive and, although independent like most cats, they are more owner-oriented than an average domestic cat is known to be. Maine coons, in particular, are often quite fond of water, which is so rare for cats a species.
A cat of any breed, including mixed and unknown breeds, can have a very unique personality. Your pet might be very dog-like despite the breed and the opposite, even if their breed suggests dog-like behaviors.
How To Train Your Cat
Although cats are very intelligent animals, with exceptionally strong senses and instincts, they are not known for their working intelligence. In other words, they are typically hard to train, due to their independent natures.
However, the principle for training a cat is the same as for training a dog.
- Use positive reinforcement to encourage the desired behavior: offer a treat or neck rub if the cat fetches a toy, for example. Most cats who enjoy fetching will do so just because it is fun for them.
- When the cat is just starting to learn a new skill, be very consistent with rewards
- Avoid raising your voice or punishing your cat in any way
- If your cat already shows interest in some behaviors, encourage that – you often have to be opportunistic with cats. Build on what they are interested in, to begin with!
- The training sessions should be short
- Train your cat when there are few distractions
- Train when the cat is in the mood, interested, and eager; if your pet is unable to focus, take a pause or try another day
- Cats can learn simple commands, including “sit”, and “roll”, they can learn their names.
To Conclude
Kitties that are not predisposed to learning new skills, new behaviors, and so on, might not be responsive to training at all. Their independent natures might be resistant to being trained.
Your cat will decide if he or she is interested in training, and, if inclined to interaction and new skills, then you might be able to successfully encourage the behaviors you want to promote.
Feeling safe at home and trusting all its inhabitants will help your cat learn and acquire new skills.
