Can Cats and Canines Coexist without Chaos?
Prey Drive
Cats chase mice. Dogs chase cats. It’s the law of nature isn’t it? Yet some dogs ignore cats, some adore them, some keep a respectful distance – and yes, some chase them on sight. The average cat can defend itself against the average dog but certain breeds can be a real threat to a cat’s life and limb because they have a strong ‘Prey Drive’. Most dogs will give enthusiastic chase to a running cat, but won’t go to extreme lengths; a prey-driven dog will sprint all-out and will maim or kill the cat if he catches it.
In short, a strongly prey-driven dog is a danger to any cat within reach.
Breeds such as Weimaraners, Terriers, most herding breeds (particularly Australian Cattle Dogs and Border Collies), and Akitas pose the greatest danger to cats because their prey drive goes above and beyond the normal canine instinct to chase.
There are two ways to diminish the prey drive. The first is to redirect their prey drive to chasing items such as balls and frisbees. Not only is this excellent exercise but it is a much needed outlet for prey drive which is necessary, as complete suppression of prey drive can lead to frustration and behavioral problems. The second way to diminish your dogs prey response to your cat is to show that dog that the cat is part of his pack and is even a more dominant member than the dog. You can do this using the following techniques:
- always feed your cat first, if possible make your dog sit and wait while you put the cats food down and then once the cat is well into its meal feed the dog,
- when you arrive home always greet the cat first,
- allow the cat access to favored places such as beds and couches but do not let the dog.
Reducing prey drive in these ways should reduce the incidence and severity of chasing attempts.
Stopping Them in Their Tracks
While the training work is being done, and before you begin to see results, keep your dog on a head collar in the house with a line trailing off him (smooth nylon line that doesn’t snag).
When he takes off after a cat, you can catch this line and redirect him before he makes too much progress. When redirecting his attention, use the “Ah-ah-ahhh!” growling sound, rather than “No.” Use a stern voice so that the dog recognizes the difference in tone from your normal voice. It is important your voice correction is sincere and that the delivery is consistent so that the dog associates the harsh tone with stopping the behavior. As soon as the chase stops, redirect your dog with a command such as sit and when he follows it praise him and treat him excitedly.
Practice targeted obedience training will also help you stop any chasing while off leash. The aim is to make your dog super-reliable on the commands “Leave it,” “Come,” and “Sit”. You need to be SURE that he will obey your command to leave the cat alone.
With close supervision and targeted obedience work, your cat-terrorist will get to the point where he is capable of ignoring cats. Although they may never become friends, as some dogs and cats will, at least they will be able to live together in peace.
Introducing a cat to a dog household
The introduction itself is most important because it sets the tone for the relationship. A few simple rules will help this go well.
1. Before introducing them, let your cat see your dog from a distance, e.g. from a shelf, of through a glass door. Do not hold your cat. If it feels threatened, you will get scratched.
2. Wait until your cat seems comfortable before you introduce the two of them. Make sure your cat can easily escape if needed - the outdoors is not a recommended meeting place as your cat might run onto the street if frightened. You may want to put your dog on a leash. Let your cat watch your dog.
3. Give them plenty of time to get used to each other. Never try to force them to get along.
4. If your dog shows fear or overexcitement, don’t console or reprimand him – it will reward his behavior. Instead, ignore the behavior. As soon as your dog is calm praise him gently and give him a little treat, that way he will see that ignoring the cat is rewarding. Do your best to make his introduction to your cat pleasant, otherwise you might find that the damage is very difficult to repair. Do not rush the process.
Creating the Right Environment
- Each pet in the household needs a safe peaceful place where they can go and relax. For cats this place should be elevated and not accessible by dogs.
- Dogs will try to access and eat your cat’s food so make sure it is up out of reach.
- If you are using litter-boxes for your cat make sure they are also out of reach of your dog in an area that your cat will feel safe in. If your cat feels vulnerable while using the litter box it may take to toileting in places it feels safer such as behind couches and in cupboards!
All the best,
Daniel Stevens and the Secrets to Dog Training Team
"Secrets to Dog Training - STOP Dog Behavior Problems!"
http://www.kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/
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