Teaching a cat and dog that have problems getting along can be a difficult task, but it's not impossible. The best way to do this is to allow the animals to spend time together when a human chaperone is present. The more time animals spend with one another, the more tolerant they will become of each other. In fact, this can often lead to a very affectionate relationship. Puppies and kittens raised together are certainly more likely to develop a positive relationship.
If a dog has been especially cruel to cats in the past, however, it's probably not a good idea to try to get the two species to co-exist. Even if the dog can never manage to catch the cat, it will most likely never stop chasing it, making the cat's life miserable. On the other hand, a puppy might need to be protected from a particularly territorial or really mean cat.
However, dogs can also be trained to leave cats alone the same way they can be trained to fetch, sit or stand still. For a pet owner who has the time and patience, the dog can be leashed with a training collar. Another person can bring the cat increasingly closer to the dog. Should the dog sit still, it should be praised. If it doesn't, and attempts to lunge after the cat, the leash should be pulled and the dog should be told "No. Leave it!" Some dogs learn quickly while others may take longer, or may not learn at all.
Another approach for training the dog can also be utilized. This approach uses positive association. Each time the dog is in the same room as the cat, it's provided with extra attention and treats. Soon, the dog realizes having the cat in the room is a good thing because it gets more goodies. In this way, the dog will positively associates the cat with what it desires � lots of affection and treats!
Feeding Time
During mealtimes, even cats and dogs that get along might start fighting. Most animals are very protective of their food while at the same time tend to be curious about the food the other animal is enjoying. For this reason, it's always best to have separate feeding places for cats and dogs.
It's also a good idea to place the cat's food in a high, hard to reach area in order to prevent the dog from trying to eat the cat's food. Of course, the food should still be placed in an area the cat can easily reach and eat comfortably. On the other hand, cats don't usually try to eat a dog's food. However, if the cat does, then the best way to deal with this is to feed the two animals at the same time, but in different locations.
Remember, cat and dog food both have different nutrients, so one should never be used in place of the other. This is not only necessary to keep to keep the peace, but it's important not to mix their diets for their own health.