Most dogs enjoy eating animal poop and. although we find it disgusting, to a dog it is a free meal which suits their natural scavenger natures.
Cat poop can be harmful to your dog if he eats it. Eating any type of poop runs the risk of your dog getting ill and for him to become infected with harmful bacteria and parasites such as worms and more. Cats can carry a range of parasites that can be passed onto dogs if the dog eats their poop.
Dogs are pretty tough animals and tend to eat anything that they can find that may be a source of an easy, free meal.
This includes things such as rubbish, dead things, insects and, of course, cat poop.
It is unlikely that your dog will become unwell from eating cat poop but, if you can, it is one activity that you should do your best to prevent.
Why do dogs eat cat poop?
It’s a free meal and normally ( at least to a dog ) smells good, like cat food. Dogs love cat food and so cat poop tends to go down quite nicely for the average dog.
Dogs are also opportunistic eaters and, if they find a tasty treat such as cat poo they’ll eat it, and, the more they are rewarded ( by eating ) the more they will do it.
This is explained more in this article which discusses dog behaviour.
Can dogs get toxoplasmosis from eating cat poop?
Yes, if your dog eats cat poop that has come from a cat that is infected with toxoplasmosis then it is possible that the dog could become infected with this parasite from eating cat poop.
If you have any concerns about your dog’s health then you should seek professional advice from your vet.
How do I get my dog to stop eating cat poop?
There are a few simple steps that you can take to stop your dog from eating cat poop.
If you have a cat at home then clean up after it, keep any litter trays clean and remove cat droppings as soon as possible.
You can get dog proof litter boxes such as these that we found on Amazon.
If cats come into your garden and leave deposits then consider some form of deterrent to keep them away.
Avoid exercising your dog in places where you know that cats may have fouled.
Dog Proof Litter Boxes
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Cat poo is not the best meal
Cat poo is not the best snack option for your dog.
If your dog eats cat poo then he is at risk of worms and other infections that cats can carry and which dogs get blamed for.
Try to avoid areas that are fouled by cats and, if your dog does manage to eat cat poo then remember, as far as he is concerned it is a free and easy meal – just don’t let him lick you.
