My husband & I grew up having both dogs & cats. Neither of us have professional experience. However, we have watched family members or neighbors pets on top of taking care of our own (2 y.o. Beagle & x2 7 y.o. cats) We both value talking to animals & providing them with whatever environment they prefer, be it more playtime, a shady quiet napping spot, or sun bathing. As most know cats can’t necessarily be trained but nevertheless ours are well behaved. They do have their claws but they have never scratched or bitten (unless playfully) anyone. Our beagle is also well behaved, albeit goofy, & trained with Whole Hearted peanut butter treats. We do still currently have a cage but it is very rare we use it, mostly from when she was a younger puppy. Our animals do fine around others. The cats have an escape to the basement with a gate so if they are crabby will go there. Our dog will sometimes make the classic beagle howl at first but is never a threat.