WHY DO DOGS EAT CAT POOP?

Short Answer: Why Do Dogs Eat Cat Poop?

If you’ve ever caught yourself yelling, “WHY would my dog eat cat poop?!” You’re not alone. As gross as it is, dogs eating cat poop is surprisingly common.

Whether your dog ate cat poop straight from the litter box or you caught your puppy eating cat poop like it was a snack, this behavior usually comes down to instinct, opportunity, and biology. To dogs, cat poop doesn’t smell like waste, it smells like food.

“Un-fur-tunately”, many pet parents deal with this at some point. The good news? While cringe-worthy, this habit is manageable and often preventable with the right approach. Keep reading to learn why it happens, whether it’s dangerous, and how to stop your dog from turning the litter box into a snack bar.

WHAT IS COPROPHAGIA?

Yes, there’s an official word for this. Coprophagia is the scientific term for eating poop (glamorous, right?).

Veterinarians and animal behavior experts see it fairly often, especially in puppies, food-motivated breeds, and dogs who are bored, stressed, or missing something in their diet.

WHY IS MY DOG EATING CAT POOP?

So… why do dogs eat cat poop? Or more specifically, why would my dog eat cat poop when they’re already well-fed?

To dogs, cat poop isn’t gross; it’s tempting. Here’s why:

2. Why Cat Poop Smells Like Food to Dogs

Here’s the weird (but fascinating) part. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diets are packed with protein and fat. Their digestive systems don’t fully break everything down, so cat poop still smells like food to dogs.

That explains why do dogs like to eat cat poop, and why dogs eat cat poop out of the litter box even when they’re not hungry. To your pup, it’s basically a protein-scented snack bar. (We know. Yuck.)

Some experts also believe dogs may be drawn to cat feces because of differences in gut bacteria. Basically, your dog may think they’re “supplementing” their diet… in the grossest way possible.

3. Behavioral Reasons

Sometimes, it’s not about hunger at all. Eating cat poop can become a habit, especially if your dog is:

• Bored

• Stressed or anxious

• Under-stimulated

Once the habit forms, many pet parents find themselves saying, “My dog ate cat poop again. Why does this keep happening?”

4. Medical or Nutritional Causes

In some cases, there’s a health reason behind it. Nutritional deficiencies, parasites, digestive issues, or poorly balanced diets can all make dogs seek out “alternative” nutrient sources.

Senior dogs can also develop this habit suddenly due to cognitive changes, leaving owners wondering why would a dog eat cat poop now when they never did before.

WHAT ABOUT CAT LITTER?

If your dog ate cat poop straight from the litter box, the litter itself can be just as concerning. Clumping and non-clumping litter can cause digestive irritation or blockages if swallowed.

If you’re thinking, “My dog ate cat poop, should I worry?” keep an eye out for symptoms and call your vet if anything seems off.

DOES DOG-EATING CAT POOP AFFECT MY CAT?

Does it bother your cat to have the family dog eat her poop? You bet it does! Cats thrive on privacy and a sense of peace when using the litter box. Having the dog constantly coming and going can disrupt this sense of security and likely cause frustration. This can lead to tension between your pets, and your cat may even avoid the litter box altogether.

After all, how would you like it if someone kept interrupting your toilet time?

WHICH DOGS CAN’T RESIST THE LURE OF THE LITTER BOX?

Let’s face it - some pups just can’t help themselves when it comes to sneaking “treats” from the litter box. Puppies and younger dogs are naturally curious little explorers who use their mouths to investigate everything (unfortunately, even cat poop!). Then you’ve got the chowhounds, like Labradors and Beagles, who see anything with a scent as a fair foodie game. Dogs dealing with dietary deficiencies or conditions like pica might also be more inclined to snack on things they shouldn’t.

SYMPTOMS OF DOG EATING CAT POOP

Uh-Oh! Signs Your Dog Might Have Eaten Cat Poop

If your dog has been snacking on “kitty nuggets,” here are a few telltale signs to watch for:

• Tummy troubles: Vomiting or diarrhea might pop up if their stomach isn’t a fan of their questionable snack.

• Bad breath: Let’s be honest, the smell will probably give them away before anything else!

• Abdominal discomfort: Whining, pacing, or a bloated belly could mean the cat poop didn’t sit well.

• Lethargy: A tired or sluggish pup might be dealing with a little digestive distress.

• Decreased appetite: If they’re skipping meals or turning down treats, their “snack” might not be agreeing with them.

• Parasite problems: Eating cat poop could expose your dog to parasites like worms, which may cause itching, weight loss, or other symptoms.

HOW DO I STOP MY DOG EATING CAT POOP

So, your dog’s eating cat poop, and it’s harming their health, not to mention the fact that your cat’s feeling a little uneasy with the unwanted visitor! What can be done to stop this gross habit from happening and ensure a happy “fur-mily”? Keep reading to learn how to prevent your dog from eating cat feces and keep both your pets safe and happy!

1. Environment Management (Quick Wins): Move the litter box to dog-inaccessible areas and use baby gates or cat rooms or switch to a covered litter box

2. Boost with supplements: If your pup’s gross habit is linked to a nutrient deficiency (like vitamin B), vitamin or enzyme supplements might do the trick!

3. Dog-proof the litter box: Place it behind a baby gate or up high where only your cat can reach. Problem solved! For more tips, check out our blog on how to dog-proof the cat feeder.

4. Dietary changes: Introducing fiber, probiotics or ensuring proper nutrient intake can help reduce the urge to snack on cat poop. Consult your vet about potential dietary adjustments, and check out our blog here for a complete guide to feeding dogs.

5. Taste deterrents for poop: add a safe, vet-approved deterrent to your cat’s food that makes their feces taste unpleasant to your dog. These products don't affect your cat but can make your dog think twice about indulging.

6. Upgrade to a covered litter box: Keep those “kitty nuggets” out of sight and out of reach. (Psst… check out our top litter box picks here!)

7. Keep your pup busy: Bored dogs can be troublemakers! Fun toys and brain-teasing puzzles can keep their focus off the litter box buffet.

8. Training: training your dog to follow a “leave it” command can be incredibly effective, provided you see them in action. Positive reinforcement, paired with consistent practice, can teach your pup to stay away from the litter box for good.

9. Keep the litter box clean: Regularly scooping out the litter box not only keeps your cat happy but also reduces the chance of your dog sneaking in for a “snack”. A clean litter box is far less tempting for curious pups! For more insights, read our article on the dangers of a dirty litter box.

10. Use Door Buddy: Door Buddy is a clever and practical solution to keep your dog out of the litter box and away from cat poop! Simply attach it to the door leading to your cat’s litter area, and voilá - your cat gets exclusive access while your dog stays out. Door Buddy is affordable, easy to use, and makes the perfect gift for any pet-loving household. Give it a try, and you’ll have happier (and cleaner) dogs and cats in no time!

WHEN SHOULD I SEE A VET?

Give your vet a call if:

• The behavior starts suddenly

• Your dog has vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss

• Your dog seems constantly hungry

• A senior dog develops this habit

• You suspect parasites or nutritional deficiencies

FAQS: DOGS EATING CAT POOP

CONCLUSION: WHY DO DOGS EAT CAT POOP

Dogs eat cat poop because it smells like food, taps into instinct, and sometimes turns into a habit, not because they’re trying to ruin your day (even if it feels personal).

If you keep thinking “my dog ate cat poop again,” it’s time for a plan: better management, more enrichment, a solid diet, and smart barriers like Door Buddy. And if you’re ever unsure, your vet is always the best partner in keeping your fur-mily happy and healthy.