why does my dog keep eating cat litter

If the dog cant get to the cats poop, then he cant eat it. Why Do Dogs Eat Cat Poop? If your dog does become sick then seeking prompt treatment usually ensures he recovers well. It is rare for a veterinarian to induce vomiting in a cat that has ingested litter, as there are risks to blocking the esophagus (tube going from mouth to stomach), especially with clay litter, and often the procedure is not helpful. There are supplements, medications, and food additives that can be used to change the flavor of the feces and hopefully deter your dog from eating it. And since Naturally Fresh organically neutralizes odors better than the competition, your dog might not be able to sniff out the litter box after all. Your dog doesnt know what they should and shouldnt eat, and if they arent getting enough nutrients on a regular basis, they may think that eating cat poop is the right idea. They should also be getting plenty of exercise and mental stimulation so that they aren't exploring the litter box out of boredom. No one likes to sleep in the bathroom. Some suggestions: Use a cat door. And take a deep breath and let go of the rest. Parasites can be a concern especially if your household cats do not have annual intestinal parasite screenings (fecal tests) done at the vet, or if they are not on monthly preventatives. In fact, this behavior can predispose dogs to fecal parasitism, like hookworms. Not to mention potentially. The first step is to ensure that your dog isn't confused that the food is not theirs. Acute (sudden onset) pica usually has a medical condition causing it, and chronic pica might be related to medical issues or secondary to self-soothing or obsessive-compulsive behavior. 8 Ways to Stop Your Dog from Eating Cat Poop Once and for All. Although none of the ingredients in cat litter are toxic, cat litter can still be dangerous for dogs. However, coprophagia may also have to do with nutritional deficiencies, medical problems, or behavioral issues. In this blog post, well be answering a lot of questions youve probably already asked yourself, like why does my dog eat my cats poop? and how can I prevent my dog from eating cat feces?. 6 Potential Reasons, What Is Tofu Cat Litter? We've Tested Hundreds of Cat Products And Here Are Our Essentials, The 4 Best Cat Litter Disposal Systems & Waste Receptacles of 2023. This dust can be inhaled or licked off the paws when cats clean themselves. But the cat poops already out of the bag or I should say litter box. If you have a cat and a dog, its not unlikely to see your dog come up to you with litter on their mouth, which can force you to wonder, why does my dog keep eating cat poop?.. Young dogs are born without bacteria in their intestinal tract, but they need bacteria to properly digest food. This vet will help to create a personalized treatment plan for your furry friend and get any medication youre prescribed delivered directly to your door, so you can treat your pet as quickly as possible. Normal Reasons Why Dogs Eat Poop Your dog has been raiding the litter box again. To get started with Dutch, all you have to do is sign up online, fill out a questionnaire explaining your situation, and youll be connected with a licensed veterinarian who you can discuss with in further detail. Your cat starts eating litter. baby gate across the doorway. But the chances of your dog eating enough cat poop to send them into an acute pancreatitis . Most cases involve behavioral causes, but there are some medical reasons as well. Dogs eat cat poop for a variety of reasons, including, nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical conditions, and behavioral issues. If your dog isnt eating enough or isnt getting the nutrients they need, they may try to make up for it by eating poop. Teach Your Dog the 'Leave It' Command. Finally, keep the litter box as clean and as out of reach as possible. Vet-Reviewed Facts & Safety Guide, The latest veterinarians' answers to questions from our database, Kidney Disease in Cats: Causes, Signs & Treatments, Answered by Dr. Chantal Villeneuve, MS BVetMed (Vet), Beagle Pain Syndrome: Causes, Signs & Care Guide, How to Help an Abused Dog Recover 8 Tips and Tricks, Lymphadenopathy in Cats: Signs, Causes & Care. United States [English] (opens a modal dialog), 2021 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Surgical removal of this obstruction is sometimes necessary. Keep Your Dog Busy. As a pet parent, you share your home with four-legged children who do some adorable things cuddling on your lap while watching TV with you, greeting you at the door with a happy howl, purring gently in your face to wake you up. The first step is an obvious one. From home. Anemia can be caused by many underlying medical issues, including toxins (such as lilies, Tylenol, zinc, copper), kidney failure, immune-mediated disease of the bone marrow, viruses such as feline leukemia (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), blood-borne parasites (such as mycoplasma), severe flea infestation, and/or certain types of cancers. Most litter ingestion occurs in small amounts and will cause no side effects to your kitty. Its seen more in puppies but some dogs never grow out of it. Is Cat Litter Dangerous to Dogs? Dogs are natural scavengers who tend to devour anything with a strong smell, even poop. They may ask that you also bring a fecal sample to check for parasites and bacteria. Add a small enough kitty door that fits your cat but not your dog that goes to a room where you keep the litter box. Your veterinarian may give you a taste deterrent product and/or offer some dog training advice. Trust me, I know what Im talking about. Brain tumors: Dependent on the location of the tumor, masses can cause pressure on certain areas of the brain, which can lead to increased hunger and thus the eating of foreign material. Installing a kitty door to your basement is also a good way to prevent Fido from getting into the cat poop. How to Keep Your Dog out of the Litter Box, Some Common Reasons Why Cats Stop Using the Litter Box, The Must-Have Checklist for Solving Your Cats Behavior Problem, 7 Things That Make Sense to Your Cat But Not to You. Many dogs eat cat poop simply because its become a habit for them and they actually enjoy doing it, as hard as that might seem to believe. I go away, Caitlin does a wonderful job of taking care of her, Compost pet waste? Keep in mind that food additives need to be given to the pet whose stool is being eaten (not the eater!). If you find your dog eating cat litter without poop, it's possible they're suffering from a mineral deficiency, and it's worth talking to your vet about your concerns. Prior to going to market, this litter is heated and dried to eliminate most of the phenol, though small amounts remain. Yes, that does include cat poop, which can contain nutrients as well as protein. It also can carry a parasite that causes a condition called toxoplasmosis that can be harmful to humans if your dog licks your face, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pam Johnson-Bennett is the best-selling author of 8 books on cat behavior. Taking your cat for annual or biannual health examinations by your veterinarian, based on their age and health. Burke, Anna. One of those gross behaviors is raiding your cat's litter box and eating what they find there. Some are just looking for something to do, and the smell of cat poop piques their interest, so they go for it. Maybe you have been lucky enough to catch your dog before they have breeched the litterbox perimeter, otherwise like most pet owners you have found out the hard way. Some cats are put off by the cat flap on some of these doors so start by removing the flap and create a clean and quiet place where your cat can have litterbox privacy. These litter types are low in dust, scent-free, and highly absorbent. Want coupons, special offers, cat kid tips, and more? Use Fences to Keep Them Away. My Dog Eats Cat Poop from the Litter Box. Yes and no. Not only do they dislike the smell, but they hate the spicy taste. A bored dog can have bad behaviors. Clumping clay litter has been linked to vomiting, diarrhea, gastrointestinal obstruction, and respiratory problems in cats. Once they learn to associate the command with getting a better treat than the one they're investigating, practice letting them sniff the litter box and telling them to "leave it.". This includes stimulating the cats environment if litter eating is considered secondary to compulsion or boredom. Cat poop might smell pretty terrible to us, but to a dog, whose sense of smell is much more acute than our own, it might just smell like cat food thats gone off a bit. But whether they like the smell or not, that sickly scent is an indication of harmful bacteria and potential parasites that can make dogs very ill. This is usually secondary to curiosity but can also be due any of the medical issues listed above, most commonly intestinal parasites. You have a few options: Even though the ingredients in cat litter arent supposed to be toxic, if your dog eats enough kitty litter, it can cause an obstruction or constipation. Similar to putting your cat's litter box in a gated area, you can also confine it to a room then use a dog-proof door latch. First, if the other animal has any intestinal parasites or certain harmful bacteria, like E. coli or Salmonella, it is possible for your dog to contract these diseases. Its gross, but there are actually a lot of reasons why dogs eat cat poop. Not only is feasting on cat poop gross, but it can also be an unhealthy habit for your pup. Another main reason dogs eat cat poop is because of behavioral disorders. Vet-Reviewed Nutrition Facts & Risks, 12 Types of Dog Competitions: A Complete Overview, Can Dogs Eat Tuna? Moreover, ingesting litter could pose a problem for your pooch. The litter box could also become an unsafe place as well, if the dog shoves his nose in there whenever he pleases. It can contain pathogens such as salmonella and E.coli. The most permanent way to keep your pup away from the cat box is to train them to leave it alone. It isn't too surprising that they wouldn't know the cat food isn't for them if it is in a bowl similar to their bowl and in the same area. The good news is that if your vet identifies a medical cause for your dogs coprophagy, you can deal with the underlying condition to prevent more significant problems. Your cat's craving for cat litter can be caused by a range of medical issues, by what the litter itself is made of, and can even be caused by genetic predisposition. Its hard to imagine how cat litter, especially used cat litter, would be appetizing. If your dog does show any signs of being sick, you should call your vet immediately. One of the most effective methods is scooping the box often, suggests PetSafe. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Dogs eat poop for a variety of reasons. Always wash your hands well after interacting with your dog, and try to avoid kissesespecially if your dog is known to enjoy raiding the litter box. Aside from pica, there are many other underlying reasons that a cat may ingest cat litter, including: Curiosity: Many kittens will play with cat litter just as they play with toys. Many dogs just love to eat cat poop! Our Vet Explains What to Do, 24 Cocker Spaniel Colors & Patterns (With Pictures), Can Dogs Eat Brussels Sprouts? It might seem pretty weird to us, but the average dog will eat some cat poop at some point. Once those bases are covered, try following these steps from the AKC to teach your dog the "leave it" command: Hold a treat on the floor under one hand and allow your dog to sniff it. While it may be foul to humans, eating cat poop is somewhat normal dog behavior, says American Kennel Club (AKC). Seek guidance from the vet for any concerns you may have about a possible nutrient deficiency. In fact, this behavior can predispose dogs to fecal parasitism, like hookworms.2. There are pet gates in the market that are designed to let cats pass while the dogs cannot. Okay, first things first. If using a gate with a mesh-type center, cut a square out that will easily accommodate your cat and then secure a wooden frame around it so theres no jagged mesh exposed. Aside from pica, there are many other underlying reasons that a cat may ingest cat litter, including: Curiosity: Many kittens will play with cat litter just as they play with toys. The same goes for if your pet is in the yard and finds a dead animal. The repeated abnormal ingestion of substances not normally eaten is a health condition known as pica. And while some are normal, others are signs of an underlying issue. Give them things to do, so that they wont get bored and start looking for weird stuff to do. Talk to your vet about what youre feeding your dog and ask for recommendations. It also indicates that a lack of adequate nutrients in the dog's body may be the source of his irksome behavior. Breaking this habit might be difficult for your dog, but its necessary for their overall health. So you should talk to your vet about getting some blood work done. Bottom line: In order to avoid any health issues, you should do what you can to prevent your dog from eating out of the litter box and consider switching to an eco-friendly cat litter like Naturally Fresh. It could be exhibiting the can't-not-miss sign of an illness, referred to as Anemia. Whichever method you try, be sure to keep your kitty's preferences in mind. Shes the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. Unfortunately, since they are naturally growing substances, they have a risk of fungus growth (specifically aflatoxin mold on corn), which can be extremely toxiceven fatalto animals. It is our job as responsible pet parents to be proactive in our pets health and this is a doable solution for all households regardless of size. She's also. 3. You may notice that your dog is interested in the cats litter box. Special offer for puppy parents: Get $25 off one year of online vet care. Other causes may include intestinal parasites, poor intestinal absorption, and some types of hormonal or endocrine imbalances. If your dog is eating cat poop, here are seven ways to put an end to this bad behavior. Infused with essential oils, the Harmony formula provides mood-enhancing benefits for cats and the whole family. Best Dog-Proof Litter Boxes. One wry kid. Best Automatic Self-Cleaning Dog-Proof Litter Box: PetSafe ScoopFree Automatic Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box. Depending on the severity of the problem, you may also be referred to a dog behavior expert. Every time your dog goes for a bit of their new favorite indulgence, tell them to leave it. Put the litter box somewhere up high where your dog cant jump but is comfortable and easily accessible to your cat. Both as pups and as adults, canines do have the unfortunate habit of eating poop. Unfortunately, there are some concerns with dogs that eat another animals feces. This article is not intended as a medical diagnosis nor is it a replacement for your cats regular veterinary care. Cat litter can also harm your dog if consumed in large enough quantities to cause an intestinal blockage. Cat poop can transmit parasites and bacteria to your dog which can cause a host of different health issues. Learn more about the five most highly considered intelligent dog breeds and what makes them so smart. Dietary deficiencies: Cats need certain nutrients in their diet to grow and thrive. Your vet can help rule out underlying medical issues and identify behavioral problems and come up with a plan to prevent coprophagia. Boredom is another common reason why pups will start eating feces. Remove waste from the box daily with a cat litter scoop. Ingestion of large amounts and/or chronic ingestion of phenol can lead to severe liver issues and even death. Simple as that. A reason why your dog is eating cat poop might be because theyre not getting the proper nutrients. There are two major categories of reasons why dogs will eat feces. First, assess the current locations of your cats litter boxes. She currently works as a relief veterinarian for various emergency and specialty hospitals. Gradually work up to telling them to "leave it" while they're still inspecting the treat. Get expert advice to help your pet live its best life, The 5 Best Cat Litters for Kittens, Tested and Reviewed, The 13 Best Cat Litter Boxes of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, The 5 Best Odor Controlling Cat Litters, Tested and Reviewed, We Tested Eco-Friendly Cat Litters and Found The 6 Best, The 6 Best Litter Boxes for Multiple Cats of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, The 11 Best Cat Litters of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, Why Is My Dog Shaking? If your dog eats enough clumping litter, clumps can form in the stomach and intestines, creating a blockage. They types of boxes limit escape potential. It contains a higher concentration of calories, protein, and fat. While it might not be realistic to clean up after your kitty every time they go, cleaning the box once or twice a day will help to cut down on your dog's opportunities. Hepper.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. This is an inhumane and totally counter-productive attempt at training. . Featured Image Credit: Stephanie Ho, Pexels, How to Get Dog Pee Smell Out of Shoes & Boots: 5 Proven Methods, Why Do Dogs Hate the Mailman? And anyone who's had a dog knows that most dogs will eat anything given the opportunity! We use a science-backed approach to provide pets relief for their everyday physical and behavioral health issues. A spare bathroom or bedroom can have a dog proof (but cat friendly!) Cats are carnivores and require a higher protein diet than dogs. A stool deterrent will make cat feces less attractive to your pup. If your dog is lacking vitamin B, protein, fiber, or fat in their diet, then they'll try to get these nutrients, minerals, and vitamins however they can. Before taking matters into your own hands, its always a good idea to talk to your vet first. Preventing Dogs From Eating Litter The easiest and safest way to prevent your dog from eating cat litter is to physically prevent access to the litter box. There are a lot of reasons why dogs may eat cat poop, from underlying medical issues to behavioral problems, so its important to get to the bottom of whats causing your dog to eat cat poop. Hyperthyroidism: Rarely, this medical condition can lead to pica due to the high levels of thyroid hormone, which can cause an increased metabolism and excessive appetite. If your dog is larger and the amount eaten is moderate, then it's . Feeding only dog or human food to a cat or adult cat food to a kitten can lead to your cat searching out other things to fill their stomachincluding cat litter. Lastly, another recommendation for preventing dogs from eating litter is by keeping the litterbox clean and your cat will appreciate it too! One brilliant Australian Shepherd. Mother dogs will often eat the feces of their young in order to keep the den clean and puppies might evince the same behavior if an accident occurs during crating. If your dog is larger and the amount eaten is moderate, then its safe to just keep a watch on your dog for the next 24 hours and if you see any kind of discomfort and anything less than completely normal pooping, get your dog to your vet asap. Dogs may eat cat poop, among other things they shouldnt eat, since they are explorers and coprophagia is often a byproduct of exploration. But how does this translate to an adult dog thats caught raiding the litter box? I know, gross. Corn, walnut, and wheat are great biodegradable options for cat litter these days. In the majority of cases, dogs are just fine after snacking on cat poop. If he ignores you, say the command again, but louder. Gross, right? If the dog is bigger than the cat, place a hinged baby gate in the doorway to a room but raise it up a few inches from the floor so the cat can easily go underneath. This means that treating your cat comes into play, which can be a difficult ask. The Dutch membership starts at $8/mo for unlimited access to the vet. Nothing smells like, I know what you did, than a grinning dog with cat poop on his teeth. Since they explore the world with their mouths, the litter pan is no exception, and then they find a treat stashed there, which keeps them coming back. Use a Dog-Proof Door Latch. Occasionally, senior dogs who suddenly develop the habit may be suffering from cognitive dysfunction. Reward them with a better treat when they turn away. Wood and pine cat litter is also increasing in popularity due to being environmentally friendly, inherently scent-containing, and naturally anti-bacterial. But if you have a dog and cat, you might have found yourself wondering: Why does my dog eat cat poop?. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Some of these can make your dog sick and others can be carried by your dog and then spread to you. So, make sure your dog is properly nourished with a well-balanced diet. Eating the cat's poop might signal a vitamin deficiency in your dog's diet. Keeping stress to a minimum and keeping your cat entertained with safe toys and playtime can help eliminate this behavior. Coprophagia can pose a myriad of health risks to your dog, so its important to stop them from eating cat poop as early on as possible. With one of these, you can leave the door to the litter box area cracked open enough for your cat to slip through while ensuring the crack is too narrow for your dog. Dogs have long memories, so consistency and forgiveness are important to remember when retraining your dog. If you need to relocate the litter box, move it gradually, in small increments, to give your cat time to get used to the idea. If your dog is small, even a little bit of kitty litter can be cause for concern. For some dogs, this may include coprophagy. The key though, is to make sure the box is convenient for the cat but inconvenient for the dog. Licking causes the dust to coat the gastrointestinal tract, leading to belly upset. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, a dog eating cat poop from the litter box is a "part of exploratory behavior.".

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