Chasing Cats

How much your dog will need to chase the cat is a function of his genetics (breed) and his early learning. Wild canines will chase prey as a matter of survival. Our domestic dogs are hardwired to a certain degree to chase prey. Where a Rottweiller or an American Pit Bull Terrier may, at a certain age, try to catch and kill a fleeing cat, a Chuhuahua or a Labrador Retriever may simply find the cat curious to play with. When introducing a cat to a young dog or vice versa, make sure that the cat's claws are clipped so that the sharp ends do not injure the puppy if he gets too close. Place the dog on a lead with a training collar and correct him with a snap of the leash if he begins to chase the cat. Use the command "Leave it!".

Cats who are not used to obnoxious little puppies may show severe signs of stress after a few weeks of living with the pup. This may present inappropriate urination out of the litterbox, distruction or other symptoms. Watch for this and consult an animal behaviorist if necessary. The best things to do are to obedience train the dog and give the cat time during the day to make his house rounds with the dog away, perhaps in a kennel or other room. In most cases, the cat and dog will become friends or at least learn to avoid each other. In some cases, they can never be left alone. And remember, a declawed cat has no means of protection.

 

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