Clients
frequently tell me that they think their cat or dogs like each other but they
aren't sure. They sometimes point out that their pets sleep together, but does
that mean they're best friends? It could but it doesn't necessarily. They could
just be sharing beds because it's comfortable or convenient. True
"friends," actively seek each other and hang out, play together, and
perform affiliative gestures such as mutual grooming.
Here's a photo
of Jonesy and his bratty younger, but bigger sister, Lucy. Jonesy pretty much
just tolerates her. Sometimes he puts up with her pestering, and other times he
exercises his Sailor's mouth. When she's in the more comfortable bed he
sometimes joins her because that's the most comfortable spot.
Here's Jonesy
with Homer (tricolor JRT) and a visiting JRT. Homer would actively seek Jonesy
out and lie next to him. That would sometimes make Jonesy grumble under his
breath. Homer did indeed look up to Jonesy. But, as usual, Jonesy could care
less about Homer.
Tell me about
your pets who sometimes share a bed. Are they best friends or just convenient
buddies?
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