Huskies are loyal, energetic, and intelligent dogs. They have high energy levels and are driven by their instincts. Owning one of these beautiful dogs might be a challenge at times, but they are affectionate and fun dogs that make loving pets. You might think that your friendly Husky wouldn’t hurt a fly, but this may not necessarily be true.
If you own a Husky and are considering getting a cat or vice versa, this may not lead to the harmonious situation that you’re envisioning. Huskies don’t naturally get along well with cats. Here are the things that you should know before bringing these two animals together under one roof.
Why Don’t Huskies Like Cats?
Huskies were originally bred in Siberia and used by the Chukchi people as sled dogs, guard dogs, and companions. The dogs were also used during hunting. Since hunting was part of their job, the breed developed an intensified prey drive.
A prey drive is an instinct that all dogs have to a certain degree. It is the reason that dogs will take off after anything small and furry that moves quickly. If you’ve ever been walking your dog and had them pull you while they dart after a squirrel, you know how strong that prey drive can be. This instinct is difficult to train out of dogs, and even if you try, you can’t ever guarantee that it won’t still be present.
Huskies don’t necessarily dislike cats. But they don’t understand that they are also companion animals. They view small animals as prey, even if they’re animals that you love. For this reason, Huskies should also not be trusted around ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small animals.
If a Husky lives with a cat, they may get along fine until the cat makes a sudden, fast movement. This could trigger the dog’s prey drive and cause them to chase and possibly attack the cat. Since the prey drive can’t be changed, this is a dangerous situation.
Can Huskies Ever Live With Cats?
It’s possible for Huskies to live with cats. You may know of situations where Huskies and cats get along quite well. Just know that this isn’t common, even though it’s possible.
If you are bringing a Husky puppy home and you already have a cat, this is a situation that has the most potential to be successful. The dog will grow up knowing that the cat is an established member of the household and may even learn to be friends with them. If your dog has known the cat from day one, there is less of a chance that they will view them as prey.
Getting a Husky puppy and a kitten at the same time is an even better situation because the two can grow up together, regarding one another as family members.
If you are bringing an older Husky into a house with a cat, it could take a long time to train the dog to live with them properly. An animal behaviorist or professional trainer are good resources to consider. They can show you how to introduce the animals the right way and give you tips on how to make their relationship successful.
If you are adopting a Husky through a rescue that uses foster homes, ask if any available Huskies currently live in homes with cats. If they are already desensitized to cats and can live harmoniously with them, the transition to your home will be easier.
You can also reach out online to social media groups and forums dedicated to Husky owners. Here, you can ask questions and read stories of those who have already experienced raising Huskies with cats and what worked for them.
Final Thoughts
Huskies are not naturally friendly to cats because they have strong prey drives. This makes them view cats as prey instead of members of the family. The best chance for success is to bring a Husky puppy into a home where a cat already lives. You can also get a Husky puppy and a kitten at the same time so they can grow up knowing one another.
If you’re bringing an adult Husky into a house with a cat, it’s best to work with a professional trainer to help the introductions go smoothly and show you how to keep your cat safe while the adjustment takes place.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
