When I first got my Siberian Husky as a puppy, one of the first things I was so nervous about was him meeting my cat! Even as a puppy, I learned that huskies can get a bit aggressive towards smaller creatures, and since we had a cat at home, we needed to take action. That’s why I began learning how to train a Siberian Husky to like cats, so we can have a harmonious household!
After a bit of time and effort, both our dog and cat grew up together and enjoyed each other’s company! So if you’re wondering how to start training your Siberian Husky like mine, then read on.
The Relationship Between Siberian Huskies and Cats
Siberian Huskies are such lovable dogs, though they are born with a strong prey drive, being from the harsh conditions of Siberia! Because of this hereditary trait, they are quite friendly towards other dogs, but you have to be wary when they see small animals in and out of the house.
Besides cats being seen as prey, Huskies also tend to chase running cats on instinct, which can cause accidents and frustration in the long run. Also, since Siberian Huskies can be quite stubborn (especially when brushing a husky!), take time and effort into training them until they know well enough to NOT chase after smaller animals!
That’s why it’s important to set your expectations when you bring your husky home for the first time. It will take patience, though it’s possible for your husky to love your cat, too!
How to Train a Siberian Husky to Like Cats
Now that you’re familiar with how huskies and cats get along (or don’t), how can you prepare and train your dog to at least put up with their feline roommate? Here are five helpful tips on how:
1. Preparing Your Home
It’s best to begin preparing your home even before both your husky and cat meet. They should already have their own areas to themselves as well as barriers and hiding places your cat can go to in case they want a safe space away from the dog. Also ensure that your home is free from any breakables and fragile furniture, which can be trampled if your husky runs for your cat!
2. Start With the Introductions
I recommend that you have someone with you when making the initial introductions with the husky and cat. That way, you can manage the dog if he gets aggressive, while your partner tames the cat.
Place the dog in an area where the cat can approach him without feeling shocked. Visibility is crucial for the cat as well! Have your dog leashed when they first say hello, then allow them to sniff or look on before one of them walks away.
3. Develop Their Relationship
Train your husky and allow him to learn that cats and other small animals are NOT food. If they do jump or try to chase the cat, a sharp no is good enough, there’s no need for punishment.
Begin developing the relationship slowly, having them get together for five minutes at a time and working your way up until they’re able to live with each other without being leashed.
4. Monitor and Know the Warning Signs
Even after both cat and husky are able to live with one another, and even play together, without a leash or attacks, it’s still important to watch them closely as they play. The cat should still have a safe place to run off to if frightened, while you know how to handle your dog by grabbing their collar or being sharp with them.
Make sure that you’re also aware of their warning signs if they might fight! Cats would wave their tails if anxious or try to punch using their paw, staring intently and hissing. Huskies would be very excited, growl, or even try to pick up your cat!
5. Other General Tips
Besides these steps, here are some other general tips to follow:
- Begin training as early as possible, which helps your husky form better habits as he grows
- It’s best to physically separate your cat and husky, having their own beds, toilets, and feeding areas
- Before letting your husky loose, it’s best to keep him on a leash until you’re sure he won’t attack or chase the cat
- Give a lot of praise and reward your husky every time he’s friendly and plays fair with your cat
If you want to learn more about how to train a Siberian Husky to like cats, then check out this helpful video:
Wrapping It Up
Teaching your Siberian Husky to like cats is much easier than you think, as long as you prepare and monitor them well. I hope that this article on how to train a Siberian Husky to like cats helped you out! So don’t wait any longer and begin preparing for training and a better environment for your pets today.
If you have any questions or want to share your tips and experiences on training Siberian Huskies, then comment below. Your thoughts are much appreciated.
I rescued a 2 year old husky. I have 2 older cats and they do not get along, I’ve been consistent with teaching him no and stay when cats are around but he’s very quick to jump at them like he’s gonna hurt them. My cats totally try and defend themselves, one of my cats don’t take his guff at all but I’m terrified he’ll hurt my cats. Can’t leave them alone in the house, I’m on edge all the time. People have told me if he wanted to kill them he would have already. I don’t know what to do as he doesn’t always listen. Is there any hope of them ever getting along?
That’s true, if he wanted to kill them, he would have already done so. He may just very playful, which can be a negative trait if not trained properly.
You will need to begin training him aggressively, and this may be difficult because he is already 2 years old. Have him learn the word NO and when you are out, keep them in separate areas.