Dogs’ Natural Scavenging Instincts
Dogs evolved as scavengers, constantly searching for food. As descendants of wolves, they have inherited strong scavenging instincts that served their ancestors in the wild (https://frontierpets.com.au/blogs/beyond-the-bowl/the-scavenging-instinct-of-dogs). This means dogs have a strong natural drive to seek out food sources.
A dog’s powerful sense of smell fuels this food-seeking behavior. Their impressive olfactory abilities allow them to detect even trace amounts of odors that signal possible food. This sharp sense of smell gives dogs a biological advantage for finding sustenance.
Driven by scent and their scavenging instincts, dogs have a tendency to eat whatever smells potentially edible to them. They don’t discriminate much about food sources. This indiscriminate eating behavior means dogs will readily consume anything that seems appetizing based on smell alone.
Dangers of Eating Cat Litter
Eating cat litter can be extremely dangerous for dogs. Cat litter often contains clay, silica dust, and other chemicals that are harmful if ingested (Wagwalking). When eaten in large quantities, cat litter can cause intestinal blockages that require emergency surgery to remove. The dust and chemicals found in clumping and non-clumping litters can also cause poisoning if consumed (Skoon Cat Litter).
Puppies are especially at risk, as their small bodies cannot handle eating cat litter. The intestinal blockages, toxins, and dehydration caused by eating cat litter can quickly become lethal for puppies. All dogs that show signs of illness after eating cat litter, such as vomiting or lethargy, should be brought to the vet immediately (Naturally Fresh Litter). With prompt treatment, many dogs can recover after eating cat litter. But it’s essential to keep litter out of dogs’ reach to avoid these dangerous health risks.
Alluring Smell and Texture
There are a few key reasons why dogs seem drawn to the scent and texture of cat litter (source). Cat litter contains ammonia from urine, which dogs can detect and may find appealing. The clay litter also has a crunchy texture not unlike some types of dog food. Additionally, some litters are scented in a way that smells similar to cat food.
For a dog, the combination of these factors makes cat litter seem like an appetizing snack. Their powerful sense of smell leads them right to the litter box, where the alluring odors and textures can overrides their good judgement. While cat litter provides no nutrition, dogs are instinctively drawn to scavenge and eat whatever smells or seems like it might be food.
Preventing Access
One of the most effective ways to prevent your dog from getting into the cat’s litter is to place the litter box completely out of the dog’s reach. If possible, put the box in a closet, bathroom, or spare room and keep the door closed or install a baby gate across the doorway. You can also try elevating the litter box up on a table or counter that your cat can jump on but your dog can’t reach.
According to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, “One of the most effective methods is scooping the box often.” Frequently cleaning the litter box will help reduce odors that attract curious dogs.
Puppies in particular should be supervised when around the litter box until they can be properly trained to leave it alone. Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys and treats for your puppy and positively reinforce them when they do not disturb the cat’s litter area.
With patience and by limiting access, you can teach most dogs not to bother the litter box. Just be sure to provide them an outlet for their natural scavenging instincts with toys and activities of their own.
Dangers to Cats
When a dog eats cat litter, it can cause significant issues for cats in the home as well. Dogs’ eating and scavenging behavior diminishes the clean area cats have to use the litter box, which can cause stress and hygiene issues for cats
According to experts at AKC, eating cat feces or litter soiled with cat waste can also allow diseases to spread between pets. Diseases like toxoplasmosis, parasites, and bacterial infections can be transmitted through contact with infected feces.
The unhygienic environment and risk of disease transmission causes understandable stress for cats. Cats are very fastidious animals and need a clean litter box. When dogs eat cat litter, it violates this need and creates an anxious and unhealthy situation for cats.
Training the Dog
The best way to train a dog to stop eating cat litter is through positive reinforcement. When you catch your dog not eating the cat litter, immediately reward them with praise and treats. This reinforces good behavior. You can also redirect their snacking instinct to appropriate chew toys. Offering a high-value chew toy when they go near the litter can shift their focus. It’s important not to punish or yell at the dog after the fact. They won’t understand what they did wrong. But you can issue a firm “No” or other marker word if you catch them in the act. The key is rewarding desired behaviors, managing access to the litter box, and setting them up for success.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-does-my-dog-eat-cat-poop/
https://wagwalking.com/training/not-eat-cat-poop
Addressing Underlying Issues
Sometimes dogs eat cat litter or feces due to an underlying physical or psychological issue. It’s important to rule out any potential nutritional deficiencies or hunger by ensuring your dog is receiving a complete and balanced diet with the right amount of calories. Lack of certain vitamins like B vitamins or amino acids can cause pica behaviors like eating non-food items.
Make sure your dog is getting enough daily exercise and mental stimulation as well. Bored dogs are more likely to develop unwanted behaviors. Try increasing daily walks, play time, obedience training, puzzle toys etc. This will help satisfy their natural scavenging instincts.
If the habit seems anxiety-related, work to reduce any stress triggers in your dog’s environment. Exposure to loud noises, lack of routine, punishment, or instability in the home can cause anxiety. Consider seeing a certified trainer or veterinary behaviorist if anxiety seems severe. They can recommend relaxation techniques and behavior modification plans. Reduce scolding and make litter access impossible until the underlying issue is addressed.
Sources:
https://www.fearfreehappyhomes.com/fear-free-behavior-my-dog-eats-cat-food-and-cat-feces/
https://flexlatch.com/blogs/news/why-does-my-dog-eat-cat-litter
Cleaning Litter Frequently
One of the best ways to deter dogs from eating cat litter is to clean it frequently. Dogs are often drawn to the smell of ammonia from cat urine in the litter. By scooping the litter box daily and changing out all the litter regularly, you can help reduce tempting odors.
Experts recommend scooping the litter at least once per day. The entire box should be emptied, cleaned, and refilled with fresh litter once per week or every couple of weeks depending on use. This frequent cleaning schedule will help minimize odor buildup.
Using a litter designed to control odors can also make the litter box less enticing. Look for litters made with activated charcoal or baking soda to help absorb smells. Scoopable unscented clumping litter is another good option, as the clumps can easily be removed daily.
With diligent litter box maintenance, you can reduce the chances that your dog will be drawn to snack on the cat’s litter. Be sure to take your pup outside frequently as well so they won’t feel the need to use the litter box if they can’t hold it between walks.
Trying Litter Alternatives
Some dogs prefer the texture of clumping litter over other varieties. Trying alternative litters like pellet, crystal, paper, or pine options can deter dogs from eating cat litter.
Pellet litters like SecondNature are made from plant fibers and have a different texture than clay. The pellets don’t clump together and are too big for a dog to easily consume.
Crystal litters like Ökocat Super Soft also don’t clump and have a rougher texture. The crystals are also too large for a dog to eat and digest.
Paper and pine litters provide an inexpensive, biodegradable option. The soft, fluffy texture is less appealing for dogs to eat. Placing citrus peels or spraying vinegar around the litter box can also deter dogs with the strong scents.
When to See the Vet
If your dog has eaten a large amount of clumping cat litter, it’s important to contact your vet right away. Clumping litters can expand in the intestines and cause a life-threatening blockage [1]. Signs of an intestinal blockage include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy.
Some other signs that warrant a vet visit include [2]:
- Acting lethargic
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of coordination
- Coughing
- Fever
If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms after eating cat litter, contact your vet right away. They can check for intestinal blockages or other issues and provide the proper treatment.