We have both a dog and a cat in our house. I like it that way. Makes life interesting. Sometimes, I think they get confused over what species they are. The dog acts like a cat, and the cat acts like a dog. Maybe that's because they grew up together. We had the cat as a kitten, and then adopted the dog when she was a puppy, less than a year later.

According to this article, "Cats happy to share if they're top dog," in ABC Science, "...if the animals are introduced to each other while still a puppy and a kitten, the two can actually learn each other's body language."

I hadn't thought of it as learning "body language" but that makes sense. In the article, it talks about the sniffing procedure. We all know what dogs like to do - regardless of human sensibilities! Cats are much more proper - they sniff noses.

And so, now I understand why Carmel, my dog, sniffs noses with Wabby Wibby, my cat. (Wabby Wibby stands for baby kitty - in baby talk; because, of course, I always talk baby talk to her)

The article in mention here talks about behavior. Behavior is an interesting topic, and one Dr. Larry touches on now and then. In the article, two scientists studied animal behavior both via a veterinary questionnaire sent to people with dogs and cats, and in-home observations. This is all out of Tel Aviv University, BTW. I fuond it so fascintating I thought I'd share here.

Animal Behavior is one area that we humans still need training in. Cats and dogs do things for a reason, the same as you and I. If we can understand those reasons, we'll be a lot closer to having a happy, healthy life together. Don't you think?