Are English Setters good with cats? Perhaps you love your feline friend, yet you want to add an adorable English Setter to your family. There are some myths that cats don’t get along with dogs, but this can be untrue. Dogs and cats could coexist, but it depends on the dog breed and how it is trained or socialized.
So how about English setters? Can they live peacefully with cats? Lets’ explore a bit further.
English Setters Overview
English setters are one of the oldest breeds of domesticated dogs, with a history that dates back to the 13th century. Originally bred as a gun dog, they were prized for their ability to work quietly and patiently in the field, setting birds for hunters.
Today, English setter is known as a hunting dog, but they also make wonderful companions. They are gentle, affectionate dogs that love spending time with their families.
English Setters are also very friendly with other animals, making them a good choice for households with furry friends. While they are no longer as common as they once were, they remain popular among those who appreciate their gentle nature and hunting prowess.
How Friendly Are English Setters?
English Setters are rated 5 for friendliness on the American Kennel Club’s scale. Let’s take a look at how English setters interact with some of the most common companions they might encounter.
👩🦰Children
An English setter dog is very gentle and loving with children. They are patient and enjoy being around kids of all ages, make great playmates, and will happily join in on any games or activities.
👨🔧Strangers
English setter breed is generally friendly towards strangers. They may bark when someone new comes to the door, but they will quickly warm up and be eager to meet them. They make excellent watchdogs that will alert you to newcomers, but they are not aggressive.
🐶Other Dogs
English setters get along well with other dogs. They are social creatures who enjoy the company of their canine friends. They do best with dogs with similar energy levels and who like to play.
Are English Setters Good With Cats?
The answer is yes; English Setters can be good with cats. Though they were bred as hunting dogs, they are surprisingly gentle and mellow around cats. Below are the reasons that make English Setters good with cats.
✔️Similar Temperaments
One of the main reasons why English setters and cats get along so well is because they have similar temperaments. Both English setter temperament and cats are gentle, loving, and easygoing, which makes them ideal companions for one another. Neither animal is prone to aggression or outbursts, making them both calm and easy to live with.
✔️Both Independent
These two animals get along so well because they’re both independent. English setters were bred as hunting dogs, which means they’re used to being on their own for long periods. Similarly, cats are independent animals that don’t mind spending time alone. This means that neither animal will get in the way of the other’s independence or need for alone time.
✔️Both Affectionate
Though they’re independent, both English setters and cats are also affectionate animals that enjoy spending time with their loved ones. This shared trait makes them natural companions for one another since they both enjoy cuddling, petting, and being in close proximity to those they care about.
✔️Similar Exercise Needs
English setters need moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy, which is something that cats also need. This means you won’t have to worry about one animal getting too much exercise while the other isn’t getting enough since they’ll both be getting the same amount of physical activity.
✔️They Get Along With Other Animals
English setters and cats make good companions for one another because they both get along with other animals. Suppose you already have a cat and you’re considering getting an English setter, or vice versa. In that case, you won’t have to worry about any conflict between the two animals since they’re both used to being around other creatures.
Tips to Make English Setters and Cats Get Along
While every dog and cat is different, there are some tips you can follow to help make sure your new pet is introduced to your English Setter puppy in the best way possible.
Choose the right cat
If you have your heart set on a specific cat breed, do a research to find out if that breed typically gets along well with dogs. Some breeds, like Siameses, are known for being high-energy and may not be the best fit if you have a laid-back Setter.
Bring your new cat home when your Setter isn’t around
This will allow the cat to explore its new surroundings and get comfortable without feeling overwhelmed by a big dog.
Allow the cat to approach the Setter on its own terms
Once the cat is comfortable in its new home, let it decide when it’s ready to meet the Setter. If the Setter tries to sniff or play with the cat too soon, it may scare the cat away and make it harder for them to bond in the future.
Supervise all interactions between the Setter and the cat at first
Even if they seem to be getting along well, it’s important to keep an eye on them until you’re sure they’re both comfortable with each other.
Be prepared for some hissing and growling at first
It’s normal for cats and dogs to need time to adjust to each other, so don’t be discouraged if they’re not best friends. With patience and positive reinforcement, they’ll eventually learn to coexist peacefully.
Reward both of them with treats when they get along
Giving your Setter and cat a treat whenever they’re calm and gentle with each other will help to reinforce positive behaviors, making it more likely that they’ll continue to get along in the future.
Invest in some toys for both animals
This will help to keep them both occupied and help prevent any potential conflicts. Cat toys like scratching posts, interactive laser lights, and feather wands can provide hours of entertainment for your feline friend, while an assortment of chew toys and interactive puzzles can keep your Setter entertained.
Provide both with attention
Both English setters and cats thrive on attention, so show them plenty of love. Set aside time every day to cuddle with your pets, play with them, and provide them with enrichment activities that can help keep their minds active.
Following these tips will give your English Setter and cat the best chance of becoming lifelong friends.
Cat-Friendly Dogs Breeds
Aside from English Setters, there are several other breeds of dogs that tend to get along well with cats; these include:
🐾Newfoundland
These massive pups are gentle giants known for their kind and patient dispositions. They love spending time with their families, including their feline friends.
🐾Golden Retriever
One of the most known dog breeds in the world, Golden Retrievers are also known for being great with cats. They’re intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please, making them the perfect addition to any home-cat included.
🐾German Shepherd
German Shepherds are loyal, obedient, and protective, which makes them great guard dogs. But they’re also good with cats-as long as they’re introduced at a young age and socialized properly.
🐾Collie
Collies are herding dogs by nature, but they’re also great with cats-especially if they’ve been raised together from puppyhood. These active pups need plenty of exercises, so they’re not ideal for families who are away from home frequently.
🐾Labrador Retriever
Like Golden Retrievers, Labs are some of the most famous dog breeds. They’re friendly and good with children and animals-including cats.
🐾Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties are herding dogs like Collies, but they’re smaller in size. They’re also great with cats-again, as long as they’ve been properly introduced at a young age and make wonderful family pets.
🐾Bernese Mountain Dog
Berners are large working dogs originally bred in Switzerland to help farmers with various tasks like pulling carts and guarding livestock. These days, they make great family pets-and get along well with cats too!
If English Setters aren’t quite the right fit for your home, consider one of these cat-friendly breeds instead.
Cat Breeds That Get Along Well With English Setters
Several cat breeds are known for being good-natured and easygoing, making them the perfect companion for your four-legged friend. Here are nine of the best cat breeds to consider if you’re looking for a feline friend for your English Setter.
🐱American Shorthair
American Shorthairs are known for their gentle dispositions and easygoing nature, which makes them the perfect match for an English Setter. They’re also among the most popular cat breeds in the United States, so you’ll have no trouble finding one to adopt.
🐱Siberian
Siberian cats are another great option for English Setter lovers. They’re known for being very affectionate and loving, so they’ll quickly become part of the family. They’re also one of the largest cat breeds, so they can hold their own against an English Setter’s exuberance.
🐱Japanese Bobtail
If you’re looking for a cat that’s a little bit different, the Japanese Bobtail is a great option. These cats are known for their unique tails, shorter than other cat breeds. They’re also affectionate and playful, making them a perfect match for an English Setter.
🐱Maine Coon
Maine Coons are another large cat breed that does well with English Setters. They’re known for their intelligence and independent streak, which means they won’t be intimidated by an English Setter’s size. They’re also among the most popular cat breeds in the United States, so you should have no trouble finding one to adopt.
🐱Birman
Birman cats are another great choice for English Setter lovers. They’re known for their gentle dispositions and loving nature, which makes them the perfect match for an English Setter. They’re also one of the most popular cat breeds in the United Kingdom, so you’ll have no trouble finding one to adopt.
🐱British Shorthair
British Shorthairs are another good choice for English Setter lovers. They’re known for their easygoing nature and affectionate dispositions, which makes them the perfect match for an English Setter. They’re also one of the most popular cat breeds in Europe, so you’ll have no trouble finding one to adopt.
🐱Abyssinian
Abyssinian cats are another excellent option for English Setter lovers. They’re known for their intelligence and active nature, which means they’ll be able to keep up with an English Setter’s high energy level. They’re also one of Africa’s most popular cat breeds, so you’ll have no trouble finding one to adopt.
🐱Ragdolls
Ragdolls are another good choice for English Setter lovers. They have gentle dispositions and loving nature, which makes them the perfect match for an English Setter. They’re also one of Australia’s most popular cat breeds, so you’ll have no trouble finding one to adopt.
FAQs About English Setters
Below are some FAQs about English setters and cats. Hopefully, these will help you decide whether an English setter is right for you and your feline friend.
FAQ #1: Should you get a cat or English Setters first?
There is no right answer to this question. It really depends on your lifestyle and preferences. If you like things to be calm and orderly, you might want to get a cat first and then introduce an English setter into the mix later. However, if you don’t mind a little chaos in your life, then getting both at the same time might work better for you.
FAQ #2: Can you trust your English Setters with a cat?
This is a difficult question because it depends on the individual dog. Some English setters are gentle and loving by nature and will do fine with a cat, while others may be too high-energy or have too strong of a prey drive to live peacefully with a feline friend. The best way to know for sure is to meet the dog beforehand and see how they interact with cats.
FAQ #3: How do you introduce a new English to your cats?
If you already have cats and are thinking about getting an English setter, there are a few things you should do to make sure the introduction goes smoothly.
- First, give your cats plenty of time to adjust to the new dog’s scent by putting their bedding in their room several days before the introduction.
- You should also feed the dog in their room so they can get used to each other’s smells without being face-to-face.
- When it’s finally time for the big meeting, let the cats have free rein in the house while confining the dog to one room at first.
This way, they can approach each other on their own terms without feeling trapped. After a few days, you can start letting them interact under close supervision until they’re finally comfortable with each other.
FAQ #4: Can an English setter with high prey drive live with a cat?
Yes, but it will take some work on your part. Dogs with high prey drives tend to be more interested in chasing small animals like cats, but this doesn’t mean they can’t live together peacefully. It will just take some extra patience and effort on your part to make sure that everyone gets along.
The key is to provide plenty of exercise for your dog so that they don’t have the excess energy that needs to chase after the cat. You should also continue working on obedience training to call your dog away from the cat if necessary. With time and patience, most dogs with high prey drives can learn to live peacefully with cats.
FAQ#5: Can I get an English setter if I already have a cat?
Yes, you can get an English Setter even if you already have a cat. In fact, many people find that their cats and English Setters get along quite well. The key is to introduce them slowly and ensure that your cat always has a safe place to retreat if she feels overwhelmed.
FAQ#6: What are the most common English setter mixes that get along with cats?
There are several different types of English Setter mixes, but some of the most common ones that tend to do well with cats include the Gordon Setter, Irish Setter, and red Setter. These breeds are hunting dogs, so they have a natural prey drive. However, proper socialization and training can teach them to live peacefully with cats.
FAQ#7: Will your cat be jealous if you get an English setter?
It’s possible that your cat may be jealous at first if you bring home an English Setter. However, this is usually temporary, by giving your cat plenty of attention and love. Give it some extra treats or toys to help her adjust to the new addition to the family.
FAQ# 8: How do I stop my English setters from chasing cats?
The best way to stop your English setters from chasing cats is to give them plenty of exercise. A tired dog is a good dog, so make sure they get plenty of walks, runs, or other forms of exercise every day. You should also train them not to chase cats by teaching them the “leave it” command. Finally, ensure that your cats always have a safe place to retreat if they feel threatened by the dogs.
FAQ#9: Are English setters more loyal than cats?
Some cats are extremely loyal and will follow their owners around like a shadow, while others could care less about their humans. Similarly, some English setters are incredibly loyal and will bond deeply with their owner, while others may be more aloof. Ultimately, it comes down to the individual personality of each animal rather than their species.
Final Words
Adding an English setter to your home doesn’t have to mean saying goodbye to your feline friend. Most dogs and cats can learn to live together peacefully with careful introductions and supervision. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule, so it’s essential to know your pet’s personality and temperaments before making any decisions. And remember to provide plenty of exercise for your English setters so they won’t chase after your cat!
