Why Does My Dog Obsess Over My Cat?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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If your dog has a strong prey drive

(the inclination to seek out, chase and potentially capture animals seen as prey — usually smaller animals such as cats or rabbits), she might become very focused on the cat. She’ll stiffen, stare, and may start barking or whining.

Why is my dog obsessed with chasing my cat?

When a dog chases a cat, it is usually because

they are following their instincts

– particularly if your dog is a breed originally used for chasing or herding. Other times, when a dog chases cats, they might just want to play, and they will chase a cat a little like they will chase a ball that has been thrown for them.

How do I stop my dog from attacking my cat?

Redirect the Behavior

If he tries to lunge or chase your cat,

tell him “no” and put him in a room by himself for a few minutes

. As soon as you notice your dog fixating on your cat, redirect his attention immediately. Tell him to come or leave it. When he turns and obeys you, praise him and give him treats.

How do you tell if a dog is aggressive towards cats?

  • Rigid Stillness. A telltale sign of impending aggression towards a cat is if the dog were to freeze in place and become rigidly still. …
  • Staring. …
  • Visual Tracking. …
  • Tail up. …
  • Hackles raised. …
  • Barking/Whining. …
  • Low Growling. …
  • Baring Teeth/Snarling.

Is it bad for dogs to chase cats?

Chasing is a natural instinct for a dog, but

it is not appropriate behavior in your home when directed toward your cat

. The following guidelines can help you deal with this behavior through management (preventing the problem) and training (motivating the dog to change his behavior).

Will my dog hurt my cat?


Dogs can severely injure cats

, so it is important to ensure that they are fighting for as short of a time as possible. Cats can also harm dogs, but this happens far less often. In most cases, the cat is simply trying to get away from the dog.

What dog hates cats the most?

  • American Pit Bull Terrier.
  • Scottish Deerhound.
  • Greyhound.
  • Samoyed.
  • Bedlington Terrier.
  • Weimaraner.
  • Beagle.
  • Shih Tzu.

How do you introduce a dog to an excited cat?

  1. Getting started. Make sure the cat has access to a dog-free sanctuary at all times. …
  2. Keep the pets separate at first. …
  3. Feed them on opposite sides of a closed door. …
  4. Teach basic commands. …
  5. Begin face-to-face meetings. …
  6. Repeat sessions daily. …
  7. Allow pets loose together. …
  8. Proceed with caution.

How do I get my cat and dog to be friends?

How do I teach my dog to be gentle with cats?

Take It Slow

The cardinal rule of peaceful coexistence between your puppy and cat is patience.

Puppies need time to learn commands such as sit, stay or heel, and should be trained to obey these commands before meeting a cat

. Speak your pup’s name and then say the command. Reward her with a treat when she gets it right.

Why do dogs growl at cats?

Territorial behavior is commonly displayed by both cats and dogs. The current four-legged resident of the household may feel threatened by the new presence of another creature and become defensive.

To send the message that “this is my turf,”

cats may growl and hiss at a new dog. Dogs may bark and growl at a new cat.

How long does it take for a dog to get used to a cat?

Liz Palika noted that, in her experience, the “get acquainted” process usually takes

two to three weeks

. Dr. Landsberg noted that sometimes it’s not easy to tell by their interactions if a dog and cat are getting along or not.

Why do dogs hate cats?


Competitive Instincts

Dogs and cats are both predators, and as such, they may compete for resources such as food and water. In fact, this is one of the most commonly cited reasons why dogs hate cats. In nature, the cat would typically be the dominant predator, but in a domestic setting, the dog is often the top dog.

Can cats outrun dogs?


Domestic dogs are, on average, faster than domestic cats

.

Because there are so many different breeds of domestic cats and dog, there are definitely certain domestic cats who are faster than domestic dogs. However, on average, dogs are faster. Fast domestic dogs can get up to 35-40 mph.

Are cats smarter than dogs?

However, various studies have concluded that, overall,

cats are not smarter than dogs

. One study often cited is that of neurologist Suzana Herculano-Houzel, who has spent nearly 15 years analyzing cognitive function in humans and animals.

What Do cats Think of dogs?

Additionally, researchers uncovered a few other things cats think about dogs:

Cats are more likely to think dogs are a threat and act aggressively towards them

. Therefore, cats are more frequently “dominant” over their dog friends. Cats are less likely to share food, toys, and beds with dogs.

Which dog breed is friendly with cats?

  • #1: Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers are one of the best dogs for cats, and “golden” is a fitting word to describe this classic breed. …
  • #2: Labrador Retriever. …
  • #3: Beagle. …
  • #4: Pug. …
  • #5: Bichon Frise. …
  • #6: Shetland Sheepdog. …
  • #7: Basset Hound. …
  • #8: Poodle.

What breed of dog kills cats?


Greyhounds and other sighthounds (such as the Saluki and Whippet)

are notorious cat hunters. As natural-born coursers, they have a true instinct for chasing down and hunting anything small and furry — including cats. While they are great family dogs, Greyhounds don’t do well in houses with cats.

What breed of cats get along with dogs?

  1. Birman. Do you want to know the best dog-friendly cats? …
  2. British Shorthair. Do you want a cat that’s a little aloof and independent? …
  3. Norwegian Forest Cat. …
  4. 4. Japanese Bobtail. …
  5. Abyssinian. …
  6. Ragdoll. …
  7. Siberian Cat. …
  8. Tonkinese.

Can cats smell dogs on you?


Cats can smell when their owners have come into contact with other cats

. They can also detect the smells of other animals. Territorial or poorly socialized cats will become aggressive and may hiss, bite, and scratch at their owners if they detect an unfamiliar feline scent.

Will my cat always hate my dog?

Though it’s certainly possible, and actually quite common, for cats and dogs to get along and even form friendships,

some cats just want nothing to do with dogs

. They may even turn hostile toward the friendliest and gentlest of pups, leaving you to wondering what to do.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.