Just about every dog owner with a cat has witnessed the horror. The moment we see Rover eating Fluffy’s feces. We are repulsed! We are disgusted! Don’t worry. It’s a relatively normal occurrence. Here we have compiled some ways to get your dog to stop eating cat poop.
Restrict Access
The easiest way to stop your dog from eating your cat’s poop is to ensure they don’t have access to it. Simply scooping the cat poop after a deposit is made will keep the dog from eating it. If you can’t always be on poop patrol, you can put a gate around the litter box.
Also, consider a DIY solution. Get a plastic storage container. Cut out a hole big enough for the kitty to get through. Then place the litter box in the container.
Training
Most dogs love to please their people. They also love treats. Use these two tidbits to your advantage. When you see your dog about to dig for nuggets, command them to stop. Firmly say “Let go” or “No”. If they obey, reward them with a treat. Continue this practice until they learn that the cat’s facilities are off limits.
Stool Deterrents
There are a number of products available at pet stores to help curb your dog’s appetite for cat poop. Some you can give to your dog as a supplement to lessen their desire. Others you give to your cat. It will make the poop unappetizing to the dog. These are also said to make the cat’s dung less stinky, so it’s a win all around.
Proper Nutrition
Dogs will sometimes want to chow down on some poop because of the nutrients it contains. This happens when the dog is not getting enough protein and other nourishment from their current diet.Try changing the food.
Your veterinarian can help you choose the proper food for your dog’s breed, size, and age. Adding multivitamins is also a great idea. They will quickly close the gap in nutritional intake and curb the desire for litter box delights.
Go Natural
Another suggestion for stopping this bad (breath) habit, is to use some natural and healthy foods. Pineapple has been found to help. Feeding the cat small pieces of the fruit will mess with the flavor of the poop.
It will make it acidic and the dog will lose interest. Dried pineapple pieces in the cat’s food will work best.
Canned pumpkin for the dog has been known to help as well. It’s filling and great for digestion.
Add an Enzyme
Enzyme supplements can help your pup absorb nutrients they may be missing. They will also help settle an upset stomach.
Distraction
Sometimes dogs will eat a cat’s poop simply because they are bored. Try playing with them. Let them go outside in a fenced yard. Take them for a walk. Give them a chew toy or a pig’s ear. Sometimes they just need a distraction to forget about it.
Go to the Vet
Sometimes, dogs eating cat poop is not just a nasty habit. Occasionally, it could be something more serious. There are several medical reasons why a dog eats feces. They could have parasites, diabetes, pancreatic issues, or the inability to produce enough stomach acid.
So it’s never a bad idea to take a trip to the vet if your dog is eating the cat’s poop. They will be able to rule out anything serious and give advice on how to stop litter box theft!
It can be unnerving and concerning when your canine delights in consuming the resident feline’s stool. Most of the time, it’s nothing more than gross. We hope you find relief with these ways to get your dog to stop eating your cat’s poop.
