How to Keep Your Dog Out of Your Cat's Food (Vet-Approved Tips)

Have you noticed your dog snacking on your cat’s food whenever they have a chance?  If you're trying to keep your dog out of your cat's food, you're not alone. It's one of the most common challenges in multi-pet households. Cat food is higher in protein and fat than dog food, which makes it irresistible to dogs.

But regularly eating it can lead to weight gain, digestive upset, and even pancreatitis over time. Your cat also needs to eat their own food undisturbed to get the specific nutrients they need.

The good news: there are several practical solutions that work, from simple feeding schedule changes to purpose-built product solutions. Not sure if you can train a dog not to eat cat food? Don’t worry! We’re here to help!

Why Does My Dog Eat Cat Food?

Because cats are finicky eaters, their food is made to smell better and taste better. You can’t blame your dog for going after a tasty meal, can you? Make sure that you are feeding your dog the correct amount. An underfed dog is going to eat everything that they can find. 

If your dog is being fed the correct amount yet still eyeing your cat's food, you will have to do something about this situation. But what?

Is Cat Food Bad for Dogs?

Not really, not if they eat it in small amounts. “Dogs are omnivores and therefore can consume a more varied diet that includes both plant-based and animal-based ingredients. On the other hand, cats are true carnivores, meaning they eat solely animal protein and have greater protein and fat requirements than dogs”.

In dogs with pre-existing health conditions, particularly kidney or liver disease, regularly consuming the higher protein levels found in cat food can put additional strain on these organs so it's worth taking this seriously even if your dog seems fine in the short term.

Can Dogs Eat Cat Food?

Since their dietary requirements are different, dogs should only eat dog food that was developed for them. If they don’t, they could be missing some of the nutrients that their body needs, or they could be getting too many calories and too much protein.

So if you have both canines and felines in your home, you will need to find a way to keep your doggo from eating the kitty’s food. Learn more about dogs eating cat food here. 

How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Cat Food

Have you caught your dog sneaking a snack out of your cat’s food dish a few too many times? Some dogs can be very sneaky when you aren’t watching them. It is important to know how much your furry family members are eating, so you will need to do something about it. Here are seven possible ways to solve this problem.

1. Stop Free Feeding Your Cat and Keep an Eye on Things

The best way is just to watch your dog when you feed your cat. Cat food smells good and usually tastes better than your dog’s food, so they will try to get at it if they have a chance. If your cat has food available all day, your dog has all day to steal it.

So feed your cat at the same time each day, stay close until they finish, then pick up the bowl straight away. No bowl, no temptation. 

2. Train Your Dog Not to Eat the Cat’s Food with a "Leave It" Command

Training a dog not to eat the cat’s food is harder than it sounds, but the "leave it" command makes it much more achievable. You can work with your dog by teaching them to wait for a command to eat their food. If your dog can master that, you can try teaching them to leave the cat food alone.

Gently correct them with a firm “No” if they approach the wrong bowl, and reward them with plenty of praise and a tasty treat in their own dish when they get it right. With frequent reinforcement, your dog can lose interest in trying to sneak a bite or two of cat food.

3. Feed in Separate Areas

This tends to be a little easier. If your dog can’t get to the cat’s food, they certainly won’t be eating it. Some suggestions are:

• Put the cat’s food dish in a box or a storage container with a hole in one side that your cat can get through, but your dog can't.

• Feed your cat in a small pet crate or pet carrier. Close the door behind your cat when they go in, and let them out when finished.

• Put the bowl on a counter or table where your cat has access but your dog doesn’t.

• Feed your cat in a separate room so they can eat in peace, then open the door when they are done with their meal.

• Build a shelf that your cat can jump onto, but your dog can’t reach. Fill your cat’s food bowl, and they can hop up and enjoy a meal whenever they want.

4. Automatic Microchip Feeders

A cat smart feeder might be exactly what you are looking for. Some models work by attaching a chip to your cat’s collar, while others will recognise your cat’s implanted microchip. When the feeder senses that your cat is near, it opens up. When your cat finishes their meal and walks away, it closes to keep your dog out.

This is an easy way to allow your cat access to their food while effectively keeping your dog out. Some are set up for multiple cats, and others you can adjust the amount of food that is dispensed.

5. Cat Feeder Boxes

These feeders are designed so that your cat can get to the food, but your dog can’t. These are specially designed bowls that have a protective cover with holes large enough for your cat’s head to reach through comfortably, but not your dog’s.

They are simpler and cheaper than products with sensors, and there is less room for error. However, this may not solve the problem if your dog has a small head or a long tongue.

6. Install a Kitty Door or Door Strap

If you have a room or a storage area where you can feed your cat, you can install a kitty door that your cat can get through but your dog can’t. It will take a little work to teach the cat that they can just push the door open, but they usually learn quickly, especially when they are rewarded with a meal without your dog looking over their shoulder.

A door strap is another simple option; it holds a door slightly ajar, giving your cat easy access while physically preventing your dog from getting through.

7. Try a Puzzle Feeder for Your Cat

A puzzle feeder makes your cat work a little for their meal and most dogs simply can't figure them out. The food is tucked inside compartments or behind sliding panels that your cat has learned to navigate, making it much harder for a curious dog to access.

They're a great option if you don't want to feed your cat in a separate room or invest in a microchip feeder. As a bonus, puzzle feeders provide mental stimulation for your cat, which is particularly good for indoor cats that need a bit more enrichment in their day.

Cats and Dogs Can Live in Peace

If your dog and cat can live in the same house without fighting, you can certainly figure out how to keep them at peace during mealtime. How you solve this problem depends a lot on your cat, your dog and your home. 

Whether you decide to work with your doggo and train them not to eat your cat’s food or simply feed your cat where your dog can’t reach, we hope these strategies help stop your dog from eating cat food. Some methods are simple and inexpensive, while others can get a little complicated and pricey. But your dog’s health and your cat’s peace of mind are worth the investment and effort.

Your Dog Eating Cat Food: Common Questions Answered

Is it OK if my dog eats a little cat food?

An occasional nibble is unlikely to cause harm, but it shouldn't become a regular habit as the high protein and fat content can lead to weight gain, digestive upset, and pancreatitis over time.

Why does my dog keep going for the cat's food?

Cat food is formulated to be highly palatable, richer, meatier, and more aromatic than dog food, so your dog's nose picks it up instantly. It's instinct, not bad behaviour.

What is the easiest way to stop my dog from eating cat food? 

Switch your cat to set meal times and pick up the bowl the moment they're done. No bowl left out means nothing for your dog to steal.

Can cat food make a dog sick?

Yes, regularly eating cat food can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and pancreatitis in dogs. If your dog has eaten a large amount and seems unwell, contact your vet.

References:

Can Dogs Eat Cat Food? Is Cat Food Bad For Dogs? Dog Eating Cat Food