����ý

If we were to believe the cartoons, dogs and cats are not supposed to be friends.

But many of you may know from your own pets that the two species can actually get along really well.

A study has said that the way we introduce animals to each other has a big impact on their relationships and can make the difference between whether they are best mates or fight like cats and dogs.

The data was collected by the Dogs Trust's 'Generation Pup' team, who are following the progress of over 8,000 dogs throughout their lives.

They have found that the speed at which you introduce two pets can have a lasting impact on their behaviour and relationship.

Owners reported that those who introduced new pets gradually to animals already in the home, rather than mixing the pets immediately, had a more positive impact on both animals' happiness and comfort.

The age of a puppy can also make a difference.

According to the findings, puppies introduced to cats slowly - across more than one day - especially those younger than 12 weeks - are calmer and more friendly, which can help form a better relationship.

Dr Rachel Casey, who is part of the research team at the animal charity, said:

"In an ideal world, what you'd want to do is have the cat in a situation where it can escape, it can get out of the way, so maybe somewhere high that the cat can go so it doesn't feel threatened by the puppy.

"And what you really need to teach the puppy is to be calm in the presence of the cat.

"So you want to have them introduced at a time and a place where everybody is sitting down, it's really quiet, and probably have the puppy on a lead and distract it with something, so you're doing that introduction gradually".

Do your cat and dog get along like best buddies? Or do you think they need a little more time to get to know each other?

Let us know in the comments section below!