12 Signs They’re Actually Best Friends — Dog and Cat Edition

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Bolarinwa Oladeji

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Bolarinwa Oladeji

They Sleep in the Same Spot Together

They Sleep in the Same Spot Together (image credits: unsplash)
They Sleep in the Same Spot Together (image credits: unsplash)

When you find your dog and cat curled up in the same bed or favorite sunny spot, that’s pure friendship gold. Animals are incredibly vulnerable when they sleep, so choosing to snooze together shows they completely trust each other. It’s like having a sleepover with your best friend every single night. Some pets even use each other as pillows, which is basically the animal version of sharing your favorite blanket. This behavior usually develops over time as they become more comfortable with each other’s presence.

They Groom Each Other Like a Personal Spa Day

They Groom Each Other Like a Personal Spa Day (image credits: unsplash)
They Groom Each Other Like a Personal Spa Day (image credits: unsplash)

Nothing says “I love you” in animal language quite like mutual grooming sessions. You might catch your cat gently licking your dog’s ears or face, while your pup returns the favor with some careful nibbling or licking. This behavior mimics what they’d do with their own species when bonding. It’s their way of saying “you’re family” without needing words. The grooming also helps them share scents, which creates a stronger bond between them.

They Play Together Without Getting Too Rough

They Play Together Without Getting Too Rough (image credits: unsplash)
They Play Together Without Getting Too Rough (image credits: unsplash)

True friendship shows when your dog and cat have figured out how to play without anyone getting hurt. They’ve learned each other’s limits and respect them completely. Your cat might gently bat at your dog’s nose while your pup play-bows in response. They take turns being the chaser and the one being chased. Watch how they pause during play to check if the other is still having fun – that’s pure consideration right there.

They Share Their Food and Water Bowls

They Share Their Food and Water Bowls (image credits: unsplash)
They Share Their Food and Water Bowls (image credits: unsplash)

Food sharing is huge in the animal world because it goes against their natural survival instincts. When your pets eat from the same bowl or drink from the same water dish, they’re basically saying “what’s mine is yours.” Some cats will even step back to let their dog buddy eat first, which is incredibly generous for a cat. This behavior shows they see each other as part of the same family unit. It’s the animal equivalent of sharing your favorite pizza slice with your bestie.

They Follow Each Other Around the House

They Follow Each Other Around the House (image credits: unsplash)
They Follow Each Other Around the House (image credits: unsplash)

Best friends want to be together, and that’s exactly what you’ll see with bonded cats and dogs. Your cat might trail behind your dog from room to room, or vice versa. They become each other’s shadows, never wanting to miss out on what their buddy is doing. This following behavior shows they genuinely enjoy each other’s company and feel more secure when they’re together. It’s like having a constant companion who never judges your life choices.

They Comfort Each Other During Scary Moments

They Comfort Each Other During Scary Moments (image credits: unsplash)
They Comfort Each Other During Scary Moments (image credits: unsplash)

When thunderstorms hit or fireworks go off, true friends stick together through the chaos. You might find your usually brave dog seeking comfort from your cat, or your skittish cat pressing close to your calm pup. They instinctively know when their buddy needs emotional support and step up without hesitation. This mutual comfort shows they’ve developed a deep emotional connection that goes beyond just tolerating each other. It’s incredibly touching to witness this kind of inter-species empathy in action.

They Have Their Own Secret Communication System

They Have Their Own Secret Communication System (image credits: unsplash)
They Have Their Own Secret Communication System (image credits: unsplash)

Bonded cats and dogs develop their own unique ways of talking to each other that might look strange to us humans. Your cat might make special chirping sounds only for your dog, while your pup responds with specific tail wags or gentle whines. They learn to read each other’s body language like experts, knowing exactly what each gesture means. This special communication proves they’ve invested time and energy into understanding each other. It’s like watching two friends who finish each other’s sentences.

They Protect Each Other from Perceived Threats

They Protect Each Other from Perceived Threats (image credits: unsplash)
They Protect Each Other from Perceived Threats (image credits: unsplash)

True friendship means having each other’s backs, even in the animal kingdom. Your cat might hiss at strangers who get too close to their dog friend, while your pup might position themselves between your cat and anything they perceive as threatening. This protective behavior shows they genuinely care about each other’s wellbeing and safety. They’ve essentially adopted each other as family members worth defending. It’s heartwarming to see how seriously they take their friendship duties.

They Wait for Each Other Before Starting Activities

They Wait for Each Other Before Starting Activities (image credits: unsplash)
They Wait for Each Other Before Starting Activities (image credits: unsplash)

Patient friends are the best friends, and you’ll notice this when your pets wait for each other before meals, walks, or playtime. Your dog might sit by the door but refuse to go outside until your cat joins them. Your cat might meow to call their dog buddy before heading to their favorite napping spot. This waiting behavior shows mutual respect and consideration for each other’s preferences. They’ve learned that activities are simply more fun when they’re together.

They Mirror Each Other’s Behaviors and Habits

They Mirror Each Other's Behaviors and Habits (image credits: wikimedia)
They Mirror Each Other’s Behaviors and Habits (image credits: wikimedia)

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and bonded pets often start copying each other’s quirks and habits. Your cat might start following you around like your dog does, or your dog might begin sitting in sunny windows like your cat. They pick up each other’s favorite activities and make them their own. This mirroring shows they admire and want to be like their friend. It’s like how human best friends sometimes start talking alike or picking up each other’s mannerisms.

They Show Genuine Excitement When Reunited

Sleeping on Your Keyboard
Sleeping on Your Keyboard (image credits: wikimedia)

The ultimate test of friendship is how happy they are to see each other after being apart. Your cat might run to greet your returning dog with head bumps and purrs, while your pup might do happy zoomies when they spot their feline friend. Even short separations can trigger these joyful reunions, proving they actually miss each other’s company. This excitement is pure and genuine – you can see it in their body language and energy. It’s the same feeling you get when your best friend returns from vacation.

They Respect Each Other’s Personal Space and Boundaries

They Respect Each Other's Personal Space and Boundaries (image credits: wikimedia)
They Respect Each Other’s Personal Space and Boundaries (image credits: wikimedia)

The most mature sign of true friendship is knowing when to give your buddy some space. Your dog learns when your cat needs alone time and doesn’t push for attention, while your cat respects when your pup is tired and needs rest. They’ve figured out each other’s personalities and adjusted their behavior accordingly. This mutual respect prevents conflicts and keeps their friendship strong and healthy. It shows they value the relationship enough to make it work for both of them, which is pretty amazing for creatures who can’t actually discuss boundaries.

Have you noticed any of these heartwarming signs between your own furry family members?

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