If you’ve ever shared your home with both a cat and a dog, you may have noticed something surprising: your cat seems to pick up new habits by watching their canine companion. It’s not just your imagination—cats can and do learn behaviors from dogs, especially when they live together in a harmonious environment. This cross-species learning can make life with both pets more interesting, more fun, and even a little unpredictable.
How Do Cats Learn from Dogs?
Cats are naturally curious and observant. While they’re not as eager to please as dogs, they are quite capable of learning through observation—especially if there’s a reward (like food, fun, or attention) at the end. Here’s how it works:
- Observation: Cats will closely watch their dog siblings. If the dog gets a treat for a behavior, the cat may try the same thing.
- Imitation: Some cats will mimic specific dog actions—like sitting for a treat or using a pet door—just by seeing the dog do it first.
- Social Learning: Through daily routines, cats and dogs develop a shared rhythm. Cats may pick up routines, responses, and even play styles from dogs over time.
Real-Life Examples of Cats Learning from Dogs
- Using the Dog Door: Many cats that never used a pet door quickly learn after watching a dog go in and out. It’s a common first “copied” behavior.
- Walking on a Leash: Cats that see their dog sibling go for walks may become curious about leashes and harnesses, especially if walks look rewarding or fun.
- Begging for Food: If the dog begs during dinner prep and scores treats, the cat might join the party—and use the same tactics!
- Playing Fetch: While it’s rare, some cats pick up fetch after watching a dog do it. This is especially true for playful or “dog-like” cat breeds.
- Greeting at the Door: Cats may start greeting owners when they return home, mimicking the dog’s excitement.
- Responding to Commands: With the right motivation (like treats), cats may “sit” or “come” after seeing the dog do it and get rewarded.
What Does Science Say?
Behavioral research supports that animals are capable of observational learning. While cats tend to be more independent and less motivated to please, they still learn by watching others—dogs, humans, or even other cats. The more time your pets spend together, the more likely your cat is to pick up dog-like behaviors, especially if those behaviors are rewarded.
What Cats Usually Don’t Learn from Dogs
- Pack Mentality: Dogs thrive on being part of a group and following a leader. Cats may mimic specific actions but rarely adopt the dog’s need for approval or group activities.
- Constant Attention-Seeking: Dogs are more socially needy. Most cats, even after copying some behaviors, still value their independence and alone time.
How to Encourage Positive Learning Between Cats and Dogs
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward both pets when they display behaviors you want to encourage. Cats, like dogs, respond to treats and praise.
- Low-Stress Environment: The more comfortable your pets feel, the more likely they are to learn from each other.
- Safe Spaces: Give your cat the option to join in or observe from a distance. Never force interactions.
- Consistent Routines: Routines help both pets feel secure, making learning easier and stress lower.
Fun Stories: When Cats Start Acting Like Dogs
- Barking Back: Some cats learn to “answer” a barking dog with their own meows or yowls—an amusing back-and-forth that pet owners love to watch.
- Guarding the House: After seeing the dog react to the doorbell or strangers, some cats join in, either running to the door or making their own “warning” sounds.
- Sleeping Together: It’s common for cats to take over the dog’s bed or start sleeping in a pile with their canine buddy, especially after bonding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my cat become too “dog-like” if it lives with a dog?
Your cat will always keep its unique feline personality. While your cat may pick up a few doggy habits, it will never lose its independence or natural instincts.
Can my cat pick up bad behaviors from my dog?
Yes, it’s possible. If your dog barks at the mailman or begs for food, your cat might start doing the same. The key is to reward the behaviors you want to see and redirect unwanted ones.
Are certain cat breeds more likely to learn from dogs?
Yes! Breeds like the Abyssinian, Maine Coon, and Bengal are naturally more curious and social—they’re often the quickest to pick up new tricks from their canine friends.
Conclusion
In summary, cats can and do learn behaviors from dogs, especially in multi-pet households. Whether it’s using a dog door, begging for food, or just being a bit more social, cats adapt when they see there’s something to gain. Encourage positive learning with patience, treats, and a low-stress home—and enjoy the unique friendship between your pets!