Why Dogs Eat Cat Poop And How To Stop It

Dogs are known for their indiscriminate eating habits, and their fascination with cat feces is no exception. There are several reasons why your canine companion might be drawn to this unsavory snack:

Nutritional Deficiencies

Believe it or not, cat poop can be a source of nutrients for dogs. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet consists primarily of animal proteins. As a result, their feces may contain undigested proteins, fats, and other nutrients that dogs find appealing.

Scavenging Instinct

In the wild, dogs are scavengers, and their instincts drive them to seek out various food sources, including feces. This behavior stems from their ancestral roots, where they had to scavenge for sustenance.

Boredom or Stress

Dogs may turn to eating cat poop out of boredom or stress. If they lack proper stimulation or are experiencing anxiety, they may engage in this behavior as a coping mechanism or a way to alleviate their boredom.

Attention-Seeking

Some dogs may have learned that eating cat poop elicits a strong reaction from their owners, whether it’s scolding or attention. In these cases, the behavior may be reinforced as a way to seek attention, even if it’s negative.

Curiosity

Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and the distinct smell and taste of cat feces may pique their interest, leading them to investigate and consume it.

Symptoms of Dogs Eating Cat Poop

While occasional consumption of cat feces may not cause immediate concerns, prolonged or excessive ingestion can lead to various symptoms. Here are some signs to watch out for:

1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and abdominal discomfort can all be indicators that your dog has consumed cat feces.
2. Weight Loss: If your dog is consistently eating cat poop, they may experience weight loss due to the lack of proper nutrition or potential parasitic infections.
3. Lethargy and Weakness: Ingesting harmful bacteria or parasites from cat feces can cause your dog to feel lethargic, weak, and generally unwell.
4. Skin or Coat Issues: Certain parasites or nutritional deficiencies can manifest in skin problems, such as dull or dry coats, excessive shedding, or skin irritations.
5. Behavioral Changes: Some dogs may exhibit behavioral changes, such as increased aggression, anxiety, or restlessness, after consuming cat feces.

Health Risks of Dogs Eating Cat Poop

There are many potential health risks associated with this behavior:

1. Parasites: Cat feces can harbor various parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. These parasites can be transmitted to dogs and cause serious health issues, including gastrointestinal problems, weight loss, and even organ damage.
2. Bacterial Infections: Cat feces can also contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. These bacteria can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues in dogs.
3. Toxoplasmosis: This is a parasitic disease caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which can be present in cat feces. While it may not affect dogs directly, it can pose a risk to pregnant women or individuals with compromised immune systems if they come into contact with the infected feces.
4. Intestinal Blockages: In some cases, dogs may ingest large amounts of cat litter or other non-digestible materials along with the feces, leading to potential intestinal blockages or obstructions.

How to stop your dog from eating cat poop

Here are some effective strategies to help you stop your dog from eating cat poop:

1. Environmental Management: One of the most effective ways to prevent your dog from accessing cat feces is to manage the environment. Keep litter boxes in areas that are inaccessible to your dog, or use covered litter boxes with entry holes that only cats can access.
2. Supervision and Redirection: When your dog is outside or in areas where they may encounter cat feces, supervise them closely and redirect their attention with positive reinforcement or treats when they show interest in the feces.
3. Enzymatic Cleaners: Use enzymatic cleaners specifically designed to remove pet odors and stains. These cleaners can help eliminate the scent of cat feces, which may reduce your dog’s interest in consuming it.
4. Training and Behavior Modification: Implement positive reinforcement training techniques to teach your dog the “leave it” command. Reward your dog with treats or praise when they ignore or avoid cat feces.
5. Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Providing your dog with ample exercise and mental stimulation can help alleviate boredom and stress, which may contribute to the behavior of eating cat poop.

Training Techniques to Prevent Dogs From Eating Cat Poop

Techniques to Effectively train your dog to break the habit of dogs eating cat poop include:

1. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats, praise, or affection when they display the desired behavior of ignoring or avoiding cat feces. This reinforces the positive behavior and encourages them to continue it.
2. Clicker Training: Use a clicker to mark the precise moment your dog avoids or ignores the cat feces. Follow the click with a treat or reward to reinforce the desired behavior.
3. “Leave It” Command: Teach your dog the “leave it” command by placing a treat on the ground and rewarding them when they ignore it. Gradually introduce cat feces as the object to be ignored and reward them for leaving it alone.
4. Distraction and Redirection: When your dog shows interest in cat feces, distract them with a toy, treat, or command, and redirect their attention to a more positive activity.
5. Consistency and Patience: Training takes time and consistency. Be patient and persistent, and remember to reinforce the desired behavior every time your dog avoids or ignores cat feces.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

While occasional consumption of cat feces may not warrant immediate veterinary attention, there are certain situations where it’s advisable to consult with a professional:

1. Persistent Behavior: If your dog continues to eat cat poop despite your efforts to prevent it, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist to identify and address any underlying causes or medical conditions.
2. Signs of Illness: If your dog exhibits any symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or weight loss after consuming cat feces, seek veterinary care immediately.
3. Ingestion of Large Quantities: If your dog has consumed a significant amount of cat feces or litter, seeking veterinary advice to rule out potential blockages or toxicity concerns is crucial.
4. Underlying Medical Conditions: If your dog has any pre-existing medical conditions or is on medication, it’s essential to discuss the potential risks of consuming cat feces with your veterinarian.

Alternative Solutions for Managing the Issue

In addition to training and environmental management, alternative solutions may also be considered to help manage the issue:

Dietary Adjustments:

Consult with your veterinarian about adjusting your dog’s diet to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition. A well-balanced diet may reduce the temptation to seek out alternative food sources like cat feces.

Supplements

Some pet owners have found success in using dietary supplements or additives that make cat feces less palatable to dogs. Your veterinarian can provide recommendations and further details on the best supplements for your dog. 

Separation Strategies

If the issue persists despite your efforts, you may need to consider separating your dog and cat when unsupervised. This can help prevent access to the litter box and reduce your dog’s risk of consuming cat feces.