We all know cats and dogs are famously different, but what happens when a cat is raised alongside its canine companions? The result can be a unique blend of behaviors that make your feline friend seem more like a pup in a cat’s body.
If you’ve ever wondered if your cat might have some dog-like traits, you’re in for a treat. Here are ten signs that your cat grew up with dogs.
1. Your Cat Greets You at the Door
Typically, cats are known for their independent nature, often greeting you with a glance from across the room when you come home. But if your cat races to the door to welcome you back, tail high and excited, it’s a sign they’ve picked up on dog-like behavior. This enthusiastic greeting is more common in dogs, who are famous for their loyalty and excitement upon seeing their owners.
In households where cats grow up with dogs, they can learn to mimic this behavior. Cats observe and learn from their environment, and if they see a dog repeatedly receiving positive reinforcement for greeting their human, they might adopt this behavior, too. So, if your feline friend is eager to welcome you home, they might be channeling their inner dog.
2. They Enjoy Playing Fetch
One of the most iconic dog behaviors is playing fetch, and it’s quite rare for cats to engage in this activity naturally. However, cats that grow up with dogs often enjoy this playful game. If your cat brings a toy back to you, hoping for another throw, it’s a clear sign they’ve been influenced by their canine companions.
Playing fetch can be a great way for cats to get exercise and mental stimulation (ref). This behavior indicates that your cat not only enjoys the physical activity but also understands the concept of bringing something back to you, a behavior they likely observed in their dog siblings. It’s a delightful mix of feline agility and canine playfulness.
3. Your Cat Is Social with Strangers
Cats are usually more reserved around new people, taking their time to warm up. But if your cat is unusually friendly, greeting strangers with curiosity and confidence, it’s likely they’ve learned this from dogs. Dogs are generally more social and outgoing, often welcoming new faces with wagging tails and excitement.
Growing up with dogs can make cats more accustomed to frequent human interaction and socialization. They might be more willing to approach and interact with strangers, displaying a level of friendliness that’s more characteristic of dogs. This social behavior is a testament to the positive influence of their canine companions.
4. They Follow You Around the House
Cats are known for their independence, often enjoying their own space and time. However, if your cat follows you from room to room, much like a loyal dog, it’s a strong indicator that they’ve been influenced by their furry friends. This behavior showcases a desire for companionship and a bond that’s more typically seen in dogs.
This following behavior can stem from a sense of security and comfort your cat feels around you, reinforced by observing dogs who naturally follow their owners. It’s a charming behavior that highlights the deep connection your cat feels, blending feline independence with canine loyalty.
5. Enjoying Car Rides
Cats and car rides usually don’t mix well, with most felines preferring the comfort of their home. However, if your cat jumps into the car willingly and seems to enjoy the ride, they’ve likely been influenced by their dog pals. Dogs often associate car rides with positive experiences, like trips to the park or visits to fun places, and a cat growing up in this environment might develop similar associations.
Enjoying car rides indicates that your cat has a more adventurous spirit, possibly encouraged by observing their dog companions’ excitement. This behavior suggests that your cat feels secure and confident, making car rides less stressful and more enjoyable.
6. They Come When Called
Cats are known for their selective hearing, often ignoring calls for their attention. However, if your cat comes running when you call their name, it’s a strong sign they’ve learned from their dog siblings. Dogs are trained to respond to their names and commands, and cats can pick up on this behavior if they see it rewarded.
Responding to their name demonstrates that your cat has formed a strong bond with you and understands the positive outcomes of coming when called. It’s a delightful mix of canine obedience and feline independence, showcasing the unique relationship your cat has developed.
7. Showing Excitement for Walks
Most cats prefer lounging around the house over venturing outdoors, but if your cat shows excitement at the sight of a leash, they’ve likely picked up this behavior from dogs. Walking on a leash is a common activity for dogs, providing them with exercise and mental stimulation. Cats that grow up with dogs might develop an interest in these outdoor adventures.
Leash training a cat requires patience, but a cat that’s eager to go for walks likely enjoys the exploration and stimulation it provides. This behavior highlights a more adventurous and outgoing side, influenced by their dog companions’ love for the outdoors.
8. Display Guarding Behavior
While cats are generally more aloof and less protective, if your cat exhibits guarding behavior, like standing watch at the window or reacting to unfamiliar noises, it’s a sign they’ve learned from their dog siblings. Dogs are natural protectors, often alerting their owners to potential intruders or unusual activity.
A cat displaying guarding behavior indicates a heightened sense of awareness and protectiveness, traits they’ve likely picked up from observing dogs. This behavior showcases a blend of feline curiosity and canine vigilance, making your cat an unexpected but effective guardian.
9. They Participate in Group Activities
Cats are often solitary creatures, preferring their own company. However, if your cat joins in on group activities, like family games or gatherings, they’ve likely been influenced by their dog companions. Dogs are pack animals, enjoying the company of their family and participating in group activities, and cats raised with dogs can develop similar social tendencies.
Participating in group activities indicates that your cat enjoys being part of the family dynamic. It displays a level of social engagement more typical of dogs. This behavior showcases a blend of feline independence and canine sociability, making your cat a truly unique companion.
Cats raised with dogs can develop a fascinating mix of behaviors, blending the best of both worlds. If you notice these signs in your cat, it’s a testament to the special bond and mutual learning that occurs between them and their dog friends, making your home a harmonious haven for both species.
Read Next:
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.