Our question this week was:

How can I stop my dog from eating the cat's food or vise versa?

Maria Cave

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. Dogs love cat food. If they have access to it – they will try to eat it. The best way to prevent your dog from eating your cat's food is to prevent his access. You can do this by feeding your cat in a separate location, feeding on a counter that your dog can't access; feeding your cat in a room your dog can't get to, or under a chair or surface that your dog can't reach under.

I have friends that feed their cats under chairs, on counters and in separate rooms to prevent this problem.

You can also try to catch your dog in the act and scold him and give him positive reinforcement when he leaves the food alone but in my experience this doesn't work that well. It is a treat they just can't seem to resist.

It is less common for cats to eat dog food. Again, access (or lack of) is key. If your cat has ready access to a constant supply of cat food, he will probably not want the dog food.

Best of luck!


Dr. Jon


P.S. – Do you have any great pet tips on how to keep your dog out of your cat's food? I love learning from pet owners and have been looking for some pet tips. I might try to share some of these with other PetPlace users! Send me your pet tips!






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